18 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Veteran Bollywood screenwriter Salim Khan, father of actor Salman Khan, has reportedly been admitted to a Mumbai hospital and is currently on ventilator support, according to media reports. The development has raised concern among fans and members of the film industry, many of whom have taken to social media to wish him a speedy recovery.
As per reports, the 89-year-old writer was hospitalised after his health condition reportedly deteriorated. However, there has been no official medical bulletin released by the family so far, and details regarding his condition remain limited. The family has also not issued a formal statement at the time of writing.
Condition Reportedly Serious but Stable
Sources cited in media reports claim that Salim Khan is under close medical supervision and receiving intensive care. Being placed on ventilator support generally indicates respiratory distress or complications requiring assisted breathing, particularly in elderly patients.
Doctors often advise ventilator support as a precautionary or critical-care measure to stabilise vital functions. However, in the absence of an official update, it remains unclear whether the support is invasive or non-invasive, or whether his condition has shown improvement.
Family sources have reportedly requested privacy during this time.
Industry Reacts With Concern
News of Salim Khan’s hospitalisation quickly spread across the film fraternity. Several actors, writers, and filmmakers expressed concern and sent prayers for his recovery. While Salman Khan has not made a public comment, he is believed to be by his father’s side along with other family members.
Salim Khan’s influence on Hindi cinema spans decades, and his health update has struck an emotional chord with industry veterans and younger filmmakers alike.
A Pillar of Indian Cinema
Salim Khan is regarded as one of the most influential screenwriters in the history of Hindi cinema. As one half of the legendary screenwriting duo Salim–Javed, alongside Javed Akhtar, he redefined mainstream Bollywood storytelling in the 1970s and 1980s.
The duo penned iconic films such as Sholay, Deewar, Zanjeer, and Don, shaping the rise of the “angry young man” archetype that dominated an era of Indian cinema. Their work not only transformed screenplay writing but also elevated writers to star status in the film industry.
Even after stepping away from active screenwriting, Salim Khan has remained a respected voice, often sharing insights on cinema, society, and storytelling.
Family and Personal Life
Salim Khan is father to Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, and Alvira Khan. Over the years, the Khan family has remained under constant public attention, making news related to their personal lives widely followed.
Despite his sons’ superstardom, Salim Khan has largely maintained a dignified and reserved public presence, occasionally appearing in interviews and public events.
Health Concerns and Age Factor
At 89, age-related health complications are not uncommon, and medical experts say elderly patients often require ventilator assistance due to infections, cardiac stress, or respiratory issues. Early intervention and intensive monitoring play a crucial role in recovery.
Doctors not associated with the case caution against speculation, noting that ventilator support can sometimes be temporary and preventive rather than indicative of irreversible deterioration.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
While reports about Salim Khan being on ventilator support continue to circulate, fans and well-wishers are awaiting an official update from the family or hospital authorities for clarity on his condition.
Until then, industry insiders have urged restraint and respect for the family’s privacy, emphasising the need to rely only on verified information.
An Outpouring of Support
As news spreads, social media platforms have been flooded with messages praying for Salim Khan’s recovery. For many, he is not just Salman Khan’s father, but a towering creative force whose contribution to Indian cinema remains unmatched.
The coming days are expected to provide clearer information on his health status. For now, the film fraternity and fans across generations continue to hope for positive news.
Summary
Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, father of Salman Khan, has reportedly been hospitalised and placed on ventilator support in Mumbai, prompting concern and prayers from fans and the film industry.