New Delhi, July 9, 2026: Renowned Bollywood and Bengali actor Rajesh Sharma has been hospitalised following a severe and rapidly spreading infection caused by a suspected insect or poisonous spider bite. The incident took place at the famous Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, where the 45-year-old actor was shooting for an upcoming, highly anticipated film starring superstar Prabhas.
An official health update released by fellow actor Sudipa Chatterjee on behalf of Sharma’s family confirmed that he is currently under intensive care and close observation at Manipal Hospital in Dhakuria, Kolkata. Medical professionals have stated that while he is receiving
How the Incident Unfolded
According to official statements, the incident occurred right after “pack-up” (the end of the day’s shooting schedule). Sharma was winding down and chatting with local crew members and technicians in an outdoor area of the studio complex. Because Ramoji Film City features vast expanses of dense vegetation and natural landscapes, it is not uncommon to encounter various local fauna.
While talking with the crew, Sharma felt a sharp prick on his right leg, indicating he had been bitten by something hidden in the greenery. At the moment of the bite, the discomfort appeared minor and non-threatening. Believing it to be a routine bug bite, the actor did not seek immediate medical attention or notify the on-set medical team, continuing with his evening plans instead.
Rapidly Worsening Health and Flight to Kolkata
The true gravity of the situation became apparent roughly six hours later. Sharma began to experience excruciating, radiating pain in his right leg and started feeling generally unwell. Despite his rapidly declining condition, he decided to proceed with his pre-scheduled travel plans and boarded a flight back home to Kolkata.
During the flight, the situation grew critical. Sharma developed a sudden high fever, began experiencing severe restlessness, and his breathing became noticeably labored. Upon landing in Kolkata, his family realized he needed immediate professional care. He was rushed to Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria, the following morning, where a team of specialists immediately took over his case.
Current Medical Condition and Complications
Medical reports indicate that what initially seemed like a minor bite has escalated into a severe, fast-moving localized infection. Doctors are treating it as a case of severe envenomation or bacterial infection resulting from the bite of an unidentified poisonous insect or spider.
- Extensive Swelling and Blisters: The infection has aggressively traveled from the actor’s toes all the way up to his knee. Large, painful blisters have developed across the entire affected area of his right leg. www.hindustantimes.com
- Systemic Symptoms: Aside from the localized leg trauma, Sharma is battling a persistent high fever and acute breathlessness (difficulty breathing), indicating that his body is fighting a massive systemic inflammatory response. indianexpress.com
- Risk of Blood Clots: Dr. Avijit Bhattacharya, who is leading the medical team, emphasized that they are monitoring the actor constantly for potential secondary complications. The primary concern at this stage is the risk of a deep vein blood clot forming due to the extreme inflammation. If such a clot breaks free and travels to the lungs—a condition known as a pulmonary embolism—it could become immediately life-threatening. timesofindia.indiatimes.com+ 1
Because of these highly volatile factors, the medical team has stated that it is too early to make a definitive assessment regarding his recovery timeline.
Industry Reaction and Demands for a Probe
The sudden hospitalization of the veteran actor has sent shockwaves through both the Hindi and Bengali film industries. Known for his stellar performances in hit films like Khosla Ka Ghosla, Special 26, No One Killed Jessica, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and The Dirty Picture, Sharma is widely respected as one of cinema’s most dependable character actors.
As news of his critical state spread, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) stepped in, expressing deep concern over safety standards on film sets. The film body has officially demanded an immediate investigation into the incident, urging production houses to ensure rigorous pest control and medical emergency protocols—especially when shooting in areas surrounded by heavy wild growth or dense forests.
Outpouring of Support for the Family
In her detailed social media update, Sudipa Chatterjee expressed the Sharma family’s heartfelt gratitude for the massive wave of support pouring in from fans, friends, and colleagues.
The family also extended a special note of thanks to veteran Bengali superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee, who has reportedly been a pillar of strength, providing constant personal guidance and logistical support to Rajesh’s mother and relatives during this medical crisis.
The hospital administration is expected to release a comprehensive medical bulletin outlining the next steps in his treatment plan. Millions of fans across the country continue to pray for a swift and complete recovery for the beloved actor.