Veteran actor Rajesh Sharma is currently undergoing intensive medical treatment in Kolkata after suffering a severe health crisis linked to a suspected insect bite sustained on the sets of the upcoming Prabhas-starrer Fauji. The incident, which occurred at the sprawling Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, has sparked widespread concern within the film industry and prompted calls for an immediate investigation into workplace safety protocols.
According to a detailed statement released by actress Sudipa Chatterjee and filmmaker-producer Agnidev Chatterjee, the incident took place following a “pack-up” call on the Fauji set. While chatting with local technicians in an area surrounded by dense vegetation, Sharma felt a sharp sting. Initially dismissed as a minor bug bite, the injury did not appear to be life-threatening at the time, leading the actor to forgo immediate medical attention.
However, the situation took a drastic turn roughly six hours later. Rajesh Sharma began experiencing excruciating pain in his right leg and started feeling generally unwell. Despite his deteriorating physical state, the actor proceeded with his scheduled travel plans and boarded a flight to Kolkata. During the flight, his condition plummeted; he developed a high fever, extreme restlessness, and severe physical discomfort. Upon landing, he was rushed to a private hospital in South Kolkata.
The latest updates from the attending medical team paint a grave picture. Dr. Avijit Bhattacharya, who is overseeing Sharma’s treatment, reported that the actor is currently battling a high fever and acute breathlessness. The infection in his right leg has shown alarming progression, spreading rapidly from his toes toward his knee. Reports indicate that large, concerning blisters have formed over the affected area, signalling a serious toxic reaction. While the medical team is working tirelessly, doctors maintain that it is still too early to provide a definitive prognosis or declare the actor out of danger.
The severity of the situation has drawn a stern response from the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA). In an official statement posted to social media, the association expressed deep concern and demanded a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the production house’s safety measures.
The AICWA’s statement raises critical questions regarding the standard of care provided to actors and crew members on large-scale sets:
- Medical Negligence: “If Mr. Rajesh Sharma’s condition became so serious during the shoot, why was he not immediately admitted to one of Hyderabad’s leading hospitals by the producer and production house?”
- Safety Protocols: “Were adequate emergency medical facilities available on the set? Were mandatory health, hygiene, and workplace safety protocols being followed?”
- Transparency: The association has urged the authorities to conduct a formal inquiry to determine exactly what occurred at the shooting location and whether the production team failed in their duty of care.
The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the safety of performers, particularly those shooting in outdoor, ecologically dense locations like Ramoji Film City. Film sets often involve long hours in remote or wild environments, yet critics argue that medical preparedness on many Indian film sets remains woefully inadequate.
As the industry waits for further updates on the recovery of Rajesh Sharma, the spotlight remains firmly on the Fauji production team. The call for a transparent investigation is not just about identifying fault in this specific case, but about establishing a safer working environment for thousands of technicians, actors, and workers who contribute to the cinema industry daily.
For now, family, fans, and colleagues remain hopeful for Sharma’s recovery, while the film fraternity waits to see if the production house will address the serious allegations raised by the AICWA.
