‘Was Close To Death’: Marathi Actor Vidyadhar Joshi Opens Up About His Illness

Marathi actor Vidyadhar Joshi, a prominent figure in the Marathi TV industry, has dedicated many years to his craft. Recognised affectionately as Bappa in the industry, he gained further recognition through his participation in Bigg Boss Marathi. Recently, Vidyadhar Joshi made a remarkable comeback from a life-threatening illness, battling a rare disease that got him closer to death. Enduring a gruelling 24-hour surgery, he emerged victorious over the illness and is now on the path to recovery. In a recent interview, he shared his inspiring journey, detailing the challenges he faced and the strength he found to overcome them.

Vidyadhar appeared in Mitramhane, a YouTube chat show where he opened up about his illness. Vidyadhar Joshi had been absent from the industry for the past 2-3 years due to health issues. He was diagnosed with a rare and incurable disease called fibrosis, which severely damaged his lungs. Initially, he experienced shortness of breath, particularly while climbing stairs, but he initially dismissed it. After undergoing tests, it was revealed that he had lesions on his lungs. As a result of fibrosis, his lung function had deteriorated by 13 percent.

He said that while the disease has no permanent cure, the doctor prescribed him two pills to help slow down the ailment. When his lungs were damaged by 43 percent, he was advised to have a lung transplant by the doctor. He said that he was partying one day, two years ago, but it had to be cancelled since he fell sick. Vidyadhar said, “An ambulance was urgently summoned, and we rushed to the hospital. I could only manage to take four steps before collapsing. Subsequently, the doctor delivered the devastating news that my lungs were 83 percent damaged. I was placed on a ventilator, and my condition deteriorated to such an extent that the doctors advised my wife to disconnect the ventilator and allow me to pass away peacefully. She refused to heed their advice and insisted on fighting for my life. The doctor informed me that to survive, I would require a lung transplant. On the 2nd, I was connected to an ECMO machine. Fortunately, on the 8th, we received a donor. A gruelling 24-hour operation ensued, and following the surgery, I was closely monitored for 72 hours.”

He says it was only after his wife called his name aloud after the successful operation that he opened his eyes.