National Film Award Winner Rehana Sultan Undergoes Heart Surgery Amid Financial Struggles

In Mumbai, veteran actress and National Film Award winner Rehana Sultan recently underwent a heart valve replacement surgery following respiratory difficulties. Currently residing in Mumbai with her brother, Sultan has been facing severe financial challenges, which delayed her treatment.

Community Support in Times of Need

Ashok Pandit, President of the Indian Film and Television Directors Association, revealed that filmmakers Rohit Shetty, Ramesh Taurani, and renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar have contributed financially to Sultan's medical expenses. "Rehana has been in contact with me for some time now. Her condition was not good due to a heart disease involving her valves. Her situation worsened three days ago," Pandit explained.

Her brother, Rishabh Sharma, contacted Pandit to inform him of Sultan's dire need for hospitalization due to escalating health and financial issues. The Indian Film and Television Directors Association promptly initiated and managed her admission to the hospital.

Surgery and Recovery

The hospital team, led by Dr. Namjoshi and Dr. Ashok Pandit, started treatment even before funds were secured. Pandit further coordinated with Shetty, Taurani, Akhtar, and other producers like Rajen Sahni, Sunil Bohra, Vipul Shah, and television producer Rajan Shahi, who collectively ensured immediate financial assistance. "Despite being out of town or busy, everyone contributed promptly which allowed for the successful completion of her valve replacement operation," said Pandit. Sultan is currently stable but remains in the ICU under close medical supervision.

Rehana Sultan's Legacy

Sultan is best known for her role in the movie 'Dastak' (1970), for which she won the National Film Award for Best Actress. An alumna of the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune, she has made significant contributions to Indian cinema. The Indian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA) has been providing her with a monthly allowance, and is now also covering her post-surgery medical expenses.

This collective effort underscores the Bollywood community's solidarity and support for one of their own during her time of need, reflecting the industry's commitment to helping veteran artists manage health and financial challenges.