Actor Suhani Bhatnagar, known for her role as young Babita Phogat in the film ‘Dangal’ alongside Aamir Khan, passed away in Delhi yesterday. Her family disclosed today that she had been battling Dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory condition causing skin rash and muscle weakness. The 19-year-old was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) on February 7 and succumbed to medical complications on February 16. Symptoms began two months ago, with the diagnosis made just ten days prior to her passing.
Parent’s Note
“About two months ago, she developed a red spot on her hands. We consulted various hospitals, but the diagnosis remained elusive,” said Suhani’s mother, Puja Bhatnagar, explaining the timeline. Her health deteriorated, leading to her admission to AIIMS.
Sumit Bhatnagar, Suhani’s father, noted the lack of improvement in her condition, leading to lung damage from infection and fluid accumulation. Despite efforts, including ventilation, her health did not improve.
According to her father, only a handful of individuals worldwide have been diagnosed with Dermatomyositis. This rare condition affects muscles and skin and can impact other bodily systems.
Relationship of Amir Khan and Suhani Bhatnagar
Suhani’s cremation, held at the Ajronda cremation ground, marked the farewell to the Faridabad resident. In ‘Dangal,’ she portrayed the young Babita Phogat, part of the inspiring tale of wrestler Mahavir Phogat and his daughters. Aamir Khan’s production house expressed deep sorrow at her passing, highlighting her talent and integral role in the film.
Suhani Bhatnagar stood out among 25,000 children to land the role of young Babita Phogat. Despite her success in acting, she decided to pause her career to prioritize her education. Currently enrolled in a Mass Communication and Journalism course, she was in her second year. Suhani aspired to finish her studies and pursue a career in the film industry.
What is Dermatomyositis?
Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune disease causing muscle weakness and skin rash. It targets muscles and skin, leading to difficulty in movement and a distinctive rash on the face, chest, and joints. It can also affect organs like the lungs and heart. Treatment involves medication to suppress the immune response and physical therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms.
The exact cause of dermatomyositis is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Treatment typically involves medications to suppress the immune system’s abnormal response, physical therapy to improve muscle strength and function, and skin care to manage the rash.
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