Veteran actor Rajesh Sharma has been admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata after suffering a suspected insect bite while shooting for an upcoming film starring Prabhas at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. The actor remains under close medical observation as doctors monitor a rapidly spreading infection.
According to a statement shared on behalf of Sharma’s family by actress Sudipa Chatterjee, the incident occurred after filming when the actor was speaking with local technicians in a densely vegetated area. Initially believing the bite to be minor, Sharma continued with his schedule without seeking immediate medical attention. However, within a few hours, he developed severe pain in his right leg, followed by a high fever and worsening health during his flight back to Kolkata.
Doctors at the hospital have reported that the infection spread rapidly from his foot toward his knee, causing swelling and blisters. He is being closely monitored, and medical professionals have stated that it is too early to determine the full extent of his recovery, with the actor still considered not out of danger.
The incident has also sparked concern within the Indian film industry. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has called for a high-level investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, questioning whether adequate medical facilities and workplace safety protocols were in place on the film set. The association has urged authorities to examine any possible negligence and has requested that the production bear the actor’s medical expenses if lapses are found.
However, reports later emerged that the producers of Prabhas’ film Fauji denied claims that the insect bite occurred during the film’s shoot, stating that the widely circulated reports linking the incident directly to the production were inaccurate.
Rajesh Sharma, known for his acclaimed performances in both Hindi and Bengali cinema, has received an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues, who have wished him a speedy recovery as he continues treatment under specialist care.
