The unexpected passing of Suhani Bhatnagar, known for her role as the young Babita Phogat in the hit film “Dangal,” has deeply saddened the film industry. Suhani had been undergoing treatment for dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory condition, at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi. The onset of symptoms began two months prior, with swelling in her left hand. Despite efforts from several doctors, the cause remained elusive, leading to her admission to AIIMS. Suhani’s mother, Pooja Bhatnagar, shared touching memories of how actor Aamir Khan, who portrayed her on-screen father, remained supportive throughout their ordeal. Despite their silence about Suhani’s illness, Khan maintained contact and even invited them to his daughter Ira Khan’s wedding. Unfortunately, Suhani’s health prevented their attendance due to her recovery from a fracture. Pooja revealed the heartbreaking progression of Suhani’s disease, from a seemingly benign skin condition to a diagnosis of dermatomyositis at AIIMS. Tragically, complications during treatment led to an infection and fluid accumulation in her lungs, resulting in her untimely demise. Aamir Khan Productions paid tribute to Suhani’s talent and contribution to “Dangal,” acknowledging her as an integral part of the film. In “Dangal,” Suhani portrayed the younger Babita Phogat, alongside Sanya Malhotra as the adult counterpart, and Zaira Wasim and Fatima Sana Shaikh portraying the roles of Geeta Phogat. Suhani’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of her colleagues and fans, but her memory will forever shine brightly in the world of cinema.
