Dangal Actor Suhani Bhatnagar Dies at 19
'Dangal' actor Suhani Bhatnagar, 19, died from complications of Dermatomyositis, a rare disease, after a misdiagnosis and hospital-acquired infection.
19-year-old actor Suhani Bhatnagar, who played young Babita Phogat in the Aamir Khan-starrer 'Dangal', died in Delhi on 16th February 2024. Earlier, it was reported that she suffered a medication side effect after a leg fracture. However, her family revealed that she was suffering from Dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory disease that causes skin rash and muscle weakness. She was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on 7th February and died on 16th February after medical complications. The family said that the symptoms showed two months ago while she was diagnosed with the disease only ten days back. Suhani’s mother said, "She developed a red spot on her hands about two months ago. We consulted with doctors in different hospitals but it couldn't be diagnosed. She was admitted to AIIMS after her health started deteriorating. Doctors told us recovery from this disease takes a long time. However, due to weakened immunity, Suhani contracted an infection in the hospital. Her lungs weakened, causing fluid buildup and making breathing difficult. She was put on the ventilator but there was no improvement. Her father claimed that there are only five to six people all over the world who have been diagnosed with Dermatomyositis. As per research, dermatomyositis is a rare disease that causes inflammation and skin rash. It can also affect other organs. While this disease can occur at any age, it most often affects adults ages 50 to 70. In addition, it informed that women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with dermatomyositis. The research report suggests that it can be caused by abnormal genes a person is born with, cancer, or an infection, among others. Aamir Khan's production house confirmed the news via a note that read, "We are deeply saddened to hear about our Suhani passing away. Our heartfelt condolences to her mother and the entire family. Such a talented young girl, such a team player, Dangal would have been incomplete without Suhani. May you rest in peace."