In a heartrending episode that brought together the cast of the critically-acclaimed film ‘Dangal’ in shared sorrow, Bollywood luminary Aamir Khan made his way to Faridabad to offer his condolences to the family of his late young co-star, Suhani Bhatnagar. The city observed a somber moment as the grief-stricken family mourned the untimely demise of the promising actress known for her role as Babita Phogat, to whom Aamir Khan played the father in the biographical sports drama.
Suhani Bhatnagar, a talent whose brief but significant contribution to Indian cinema shone in 2016’s ‘Dangal’, succumbed to the complications of dermatomyositis, a rare and severe inflammatory condition. Her residence, situated in Sector 17 of Faridabad, became a place of mourning, and the young actress’s final rites were performed at the Ajronda crematorium in Sector 15 of the city.
An image capturing Aamir Khan’s visit surfaced on the internet, evoking a wave of emotion among fans and industry peers alike. The actor stood solemnly with Suhani’s family, a respectful gesture that bespeaks the strong bonds often formed in the filmmaking community, particularly among on-screen families.
The narrative of Suhani’s battle is one marked by an unfortunate series of health challenges, following an accident that left her with a fractured leg. Reports indicate that the treatment which ensued, while administered to aid her recovery, led to adverse side effects, resulting in the gradual build-up of fluid within her body. Her condition warranted prolonged medical care at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi, where she valiantly fought until her last breath.
Suhani’s portrayal of the youthful Babita Phogat in ‘Dangal’ provided a nuanced depth to the ensemble cast and contributed significantly to the film’s depiction of the real-life wrestlers Geeta and Babita Phogat’s childhood. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and headlined by Aamir Khan, ‘Dangal’ chronicled the journey of Mahavir Singh Phogat, an amateur wrestler who defied societal norms and trained his daughters to achieve extraordinary wrestling feats, making them the first world-class female wrestlers from India. The performances of Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra, who played the older Phogat sisters, alongside Zaira Wasim and Suhani Bhatnagar as the younger versions, were integral to the film’s success and its powerful feminist narrative.
In response to the tragic loss, Aamir Khan’s production house released a poignant statement, which echoes the sentiments felt by corners of the film fraternity: “We are deeply saddened to hear about our Suhani passing away. Our heartfelt condolences to her mother Poojaji and the entire family. Such a talented young girl, such a team player, Dangal would have been incomplete without Suhani. Suhani, you will always remain a star in our hearts. May you rest in peace.”
‘Dangal’ not only broke box office records but also garnered international acclaim for its inspirational story and compelling execution, propelling the real and reel life characters into an emblematic spotlight. Aamir Khan’s role as a catalyst for his daughters’ success story in the film seems to have extended off-screen in his empathetic support for his late co-star’s family.
As the news disseminates through media outlets and personal accounts, the film industry and audience members alike mourn the departure of a young talent whose light, however briefly shining in the realm of Indian cinema, will be remembered with fondness and respect. Suhani Bhatnagar’s legacy, as part of a beloved cinematic narrative that continues to inspire, is assured to endure.
