MUMBAI – The Indian film industry and fans of the “Khan-daan” were struck with concern on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as news broke that the legendary screenwriter Salim Khan was rushed to Lilavati Hospital following a sudden health scare. The 90-year-old veteran, who is the patriarch of one of Bollywood’s most influential families, is currently being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after being diagnosed with a blood clot.
The news has triggered an outpouring of prayers from across the globe for the man who, alongside Javed Akhtar, redefined the landscape of Hindi cinema in the 1970s.
The Emergency: A Sudden Turn of Events
According to reports from the Times of India and veteran entertainment journalists, the emergency unfolded on Tuesday afternoon. Salim Khan reportedly began feeling “very giddy” and experienced significant physical discomfort while at his residence.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, his eldest son, superstar Salman Khan, along with other family members, immediately mobilized to move him to Lilavati Hospital in Bandra. Witnesses spotted a somber Salman Khan arriving at the medical facility shortly after the ambulance, joined by his sister Alvira Agnihotri and brother-in-law Aayush Sharma.
Medical Update: Stability Amidst Concern
While the Khan family has traditionally maintained a private stance during health crises, internal sources and medical updates suggest the following:
- Diagnosis: A blood clot has been identified, which led to the initial dizzy spells.
- Current Status: Salim Khan is under strict observation in the ICU.
- Vitals: In a move that has provided some relief to fans, hospital authorities have indicated that his vital parameters are currently stable.
Medical experts note that at 90, the management of blood clots requires delicate precision and constant monitoring to prevent further complications, which justifies his placement in the ICU despite stable vitals.
A Family United in Crisis
The scene at Lilavati Hospital reflected the tight-knit nature of the Khan family. Salman Khan, who has often spoken about his deep reverence for his father’s wisdom, has reportedly put all professional commitments on hold to remain at the hospital.
Interestingly, just days prior to this incident, Salman had shared a poignant life lesson from his father on social media, titled ‘Never Blame Anyone’. The post resonated with millions, as Salman admitted it was advice he “wished he had heard sooner.” This bond has been the bedrock of the family’s public persona, with Salim Khan often acting as the calm, guiding force behind his son’s tumultuous and storied career.
The Legacy of a Titan: The Salim-Javed Era
To understand the weight of this news, one must look at the monumental legacy Salim Khan carries. As one-half of the legendary Salim-Javed duo, he was instrumental in birthing the “Angry Young Man” archetype that propelled Amitabh Bachchan to superstardom.
The duo’s filmography reads like a syllabus for Indian cinema:
- Sholay: Widely considered the greatest Indian film ever made.
- Deewaar: A masterclass in dialogue and character conflict.
- Zanjeer: The film that changed the trajectory of Bollywood action.
- Don: A franchise that continues to be reimagined decades later.
- Kranti & Trishul: Epics that defined the 1970s and 80s.
Even after the duo parted ways, Salim Khan’s influence persisted through his children—Salman, Arbaaz, and Sohail—and his continued role as an industry elder statesman.
Professional Stakes: Salman Khan’s Work Front
While the family focuses on their father’s recovery, the industry is also keeping an eye on Salman Khan’s upcoming projects. The actor is currently preparing for his highly anticipated film, Battle of Galwan.
Production sources suggest that while the schedule is tight for the 2026 release, the team is fully supportive of the actor’s need to be with his family. Salman’s dedication to his father has always been paramount; he famously still resides in Galaxy Apartments to remain close to his parents, despite his massive wealth and international fame.
Timeline of Events: February 17, 2026
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 15:00 IST | Salim Khan reports feeling giddy and unstable at home. |
| 16:30 IST | Salman Khan and family arrive at Lilavati Hospital, Bandra. |
| 17:15 IST | Salim Khan moved to the ICU for observation. |
| 17:33 IST | Reports confirm the diagnosis of a blood clot; vitals reported as stable. |
| 19:00 IST | Fans and industry colleagues begin “Get Well Soon” campaigns on social media. |
The Road to Recovery
As of Tuesday evening, the medical team at Lilavati remains cautious but optimistic. Blood clots in elderly patients are treated with anticoagulants or, in some cases, minor interventions, depending on the location of the clot. The primary goal for the next 48 hours is to ensure the clot does not migrate or cause further neurological distress.
The Khan family has requested privacy during this time, though they have expressed gratitude for the massive wave of support. On social media, hashtags like #SalimKhan and #PrayersForSalimSaab have begun to trend, with industry veterans like Dharmendra and various co-stars sending their well-wishes.
Salim Khan has always been a survivor and a man of immense mental fortitude. As the “Tiger” of the Khan family, his recovery is not just a family matter, but a moment of significance for the entire Indian film fraternity.
Would you like me to keep you updated on any official statements released by Lilavati Hospital or the Khan family regarding his recovery?