The tragic passing of “Dangal” child star Suhani Bhatnagar, known for her portrayal of young Babita Phogat, has left the entertainment industry mourning. At the tender age of 19, Bhatnagar succumbed to a rare disease called Dermatomyositis, sparking reflections from her grieving parents.
Suhani”s parents, while grappling with the loss of their beloved daughter, shared insights into her battle with the illness. They revealed that Suhani”s symptoms first appeared two months ago, manifesting as swelling on her hand. Initially dismissed as a skin ailment, the family sought medical advice, only to face a devastating diagnosis of Dermatomyositis just ten days prior to her passing.
Despite their daughter”s remarkable talent and ambition to excel in all endeavors, the family remained discreet about her health struggles, even from notable figures like Aamir Khan, who supported her during her “Dangal” journey. Tragically, Suhani”s condition worsened during treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, leading to complications that ultimately claimed her life on February 16.
“…Our recognition was because of Suhani… Aamir Khan was always supportive of her but we had shared nothing about her disease with anyone including him (Aamir Khan)… She was a brilliant girl and wanted to excel in everything that she did… She started developing swelling on her hand but we thought that it was just a skin disease… We took her to a few dermatologists but nothing helped. When we admitted her to AIIMS, she was diagnosed with Dermatomyositis. While treatment she got an infection and her body started producing fluids that collapsed her lungs and she succumbed to it…,” the parents said.
Dermatomyositis, as described by Johns Hopkins Medicine, is a rare disease characterized by inflammation and skin rash, primarily affecting muscle groups and causing muscle inflammation and swelling. It stands apart from other muscle disorders due to its predominant impact on skin- issues.
She will be cremated at the Ajronda crematorium in Sector 15, Faridabad.
Dangal is the 2016 biographical sports drama, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao under Aamir Khan Productions. In the movie, Suhani played the role of Babita Phogat as the daughter of Aamir Khan. Apart from the film, the actress was also part of a few commercials.