AICWA Seeks High-Level Probe After Rajesh Sharma Falls Critically Ill On Fauji Set Due To Insect Bite

Concerns have mounted after actor Rajesh Sharma reportedly fell critically ill following a suspected insect bite on the sets of Prabhas’ Fauji at Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City. The actor is currently being treated at a private hospital in Kolkata. In response to the incident, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has demanded an immediate, impartial, and transparent investigation, while also calling for accountability and stricter safety measures to protect film workers on shooting sets.

In a statement posted on X, AICWA appealed to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to initiate a high-level investigation into the incident. The association also urged the producers of Fauji to take responsibility for Rajesh Sharma’s medical expenses

and called for stringent legal action if the probe uncovers any negligence. Issued by AICWA President Suresh Shyamlal Gupta, the statement further raised concerns over whether adequate emergency response protocols were in place on the film’s set.

The statement read, “AICWA Demands High-Level Investigation into the Sudden Illness of Actor Rajesh Sharma During the Shooting of Prabhas’ Upcoming Film Fauji at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) expresses deep concern over the sudden deterioration in the health of veteran actor Rajesh Sharma while shooting for actor Prabhas’ upcoming film Fauji at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. Actor Rajesh Sharma’s health reportedly deteriorated severely during the shooting schedule, following which he travelled to Kolkata and was admitted to a private hospital for medical treatment. The circumstances that led to such a serious medical emergency remain unclear and demand an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation.”

Date: 08 July 2026

PRESS STATEMENT

AICWA Demands High-Level Investigation into the Sudden Illness of Actor Rajesh Sharma During the Shooting of Prabhas’ Upcoming Film Fauji at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad

The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) expresses deep concern… pic.twitter.com/osBW9ro8PM

— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@aicwaofficial) July 8, 2026

A part of the statement further read, “The seriousness of the incident has become even more alarming in view of the latest medical update. Rajesh Sharma remains under close medical observation and is reportedly still not out of danger. Considering the gravity of his condition, AICWA believes that a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances that led to this medical emergency during the shooting of Fauji is absolutely essential. The incident raises several critical questions. If Mr. Rajesh Sharma’s condition had become so serious during the shoot, why was he not immediately admitted to one of Hyderabad’s leading hospitals by the producer and production house? Was adequate emergency medical assistance available on the set? Were all mandatory health and workplace safety protocols being followed? What exactly happened at the shooting location that resulted in his health deteriorating to such an alarming extent?”

Sudipa Chatterjee shared an official statement on social media on July 8. She revealed that Rajesh Sharma was allegedly bitten by a bug or a poisonous spider while filming at Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City. The incident reportedly took place after pack-up when the actor was interacting with local technicians in a densely vegetated area of the studio. The bite initially appeared to be minor, prompting Sharma to forgo immediate medical treatment. However, nearly six hours later, he began experiencing intense pain in his right leg and his health started to decline. Despite his discomfort, the actor travelled back to Kolkata on a scheduled flight.

His condition worsened during the journey, with Sharma developing a high fever and growing increasingly restless. He was admitted to Manipal Hospital in Dhakuria, Kolkata, the following day, where he is currently undergoing treatment.