Veteran actor Sudhir Dalvi, widely remembered for his iconic portrayal of Sai Baba in the 1977 film Shirdi Ke Sai Baba, is slowly recovering at home following a serious health setback. The 86-year-old actor spent nearly a month at Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital after being admitted on October 7, 2025, with sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection that affects the bloodstream.The prolonged illness affected his joints and significantly restricted the movement of his limbs, eventually requiring treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). During his hospitalisation, the rising medical costs reportedly became a major concern for his family.According to an NDTV report, Sudhir Dalvi’s hospital expenses had crossed Rs 19 lakh, while doctors estimated that the overall treatment costs could climb further. With the family finding it increasingly difficult to manage the bills, assistance came from several quarters.In December 2025, the Bombay High Court permitted the Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust to contribute Rs 11 lakh towards the actor’s medical treatment. Several members of the film fraternity also stepped forward financially, with Kartik Aaryan, Ranbir Kapoor and Akshay Kumar among those who extended support.Speaking about the difficult period, Sudhir’s wife Suhas Dalvi opened up about the financial strain caused by his hospitalisation. She also provided an update on his condition, revealing that the actor is now back home and able to walk with assistance. Bollyspice quoted her saying, “He is at home now. He still has to walk with the help of a walker, and his mind is disoriented. But he is happy to be home. So am I. The hospital was not only expensive, but the aura of being in a hospital is also very intimidating for a patient.“Suhas also expressed gratitude towards the film industry and fans who rallied behind the family when news of their financial difficulties emerged. She said, “When the news spread that we were unable to meet hospital bills, many from the film industry came forward to help financially. I can’t immediately recall all the names. But Kartik Aaryan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Akshay Kumar were among the first to help. There were so many others from the film industry and outside. My husband is best known for playing Sai Baba. So many Sai bhakts came forward to help. Who says we’ve become a heartless people? The love and generosity after my husband’s illness is overwhelming.”While the financial support helped the family navigate the actor’s treatment, Suhas now believes that monetary assistance is no longer necessary. Instead, she has appealed for prayers as Sudhir continues his slow recovery.She said, “In fact, we request the film association, which is so kindly sending money every month, to use that money for someone needier. My husband has received all the medical help he could get. Now it is just prayers that he needs. His recovery is slow. I am myself old and asthmatic. But I am doing my best to look after both of us.”For now, the veteran actor remains at home and continues his recovery with support from his family. Known for his memorable portrayal of Sai Baba, Sudhir Dalvi’s health battle has also highlighted the affection and goodwill he continues to receive from fans and members of the film fraternity.
