Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan recently shared an emotional and personal story about his special bond with veteran actor Dharmendra during his final days. Speaking at the 56th International Film Festival of India, the actor revealed intimate details about their relationship and a meaningful visit with his young son.
A Growing Bond Between Legends
Aamir Khan disclosed that he had developed a close connection with Dharmendra over the past year, meeting the legendary actor approximately seven to eight times during that period. The two stars formed a genuine friendship that went beyond professional admiration.
"I was very close to him because in the last, I would say last one year, I must have met him about 7-8 times," Aamir confessed during his festival appearance. "I used to really enjoy his company so I used to go and sit with him."
A Father's Special Moment with His Son
In one of the most touching revelations, Aamir described bringing his son, Azad Rao Khan, to meet the screen legend. Recognizing that his son hadn't fully discovered Dharmendra's cinematic legacy, Aamir felt compelled to introduce them personally.
"One day I took Azad with me, you know, my son. I said I want you to meet someone because Azad has not seen his work, really," Aamir explained. The father-son duo spent a couple of hours with the veteran actor, creating memories that Aamir now cherishes deeply.
Praising an Underrated Talent
While reflecting on Dharmendra's illustrious career, Aamir made a surprising claim about the veteran actor's legacy. Though widely recognized as an action hero, Aamir believes Dharmendra's true versatility remained underappreciated.
"Well, I've grown up watching him, and I mean he was known as the action hero and the he-man," Aamir acknowledged. "But I think people have, I don't know whether people have really noticed, I think he is underrated."
The actor elaborated on Dharmendra's range, stating: "His performances in romance or different genres, he's done so well. He does amazing comedy, he does amazing romance, you know, dramas. So, according to me, Dharamji was right up there as one of the finest actors that we have."
Remembering the Man Behind the Star
Beyond his professional achievements, Aamir emphasized Dharmendra's qualities as a human being. He described the veteran actor as exceptionally gentle and warm with everyone he met, regardless of their background or status.
"Dharamji was not only such a fine actor, but he was a great human being," Aamir recalled emotionally. "He was so gentle. No matter who he would meet, whether it's a colleague, whether it's someone not from the industry, he would always be very warm and soft in meeting people. Always."
The actor expressed his sadness at missing Dharmendra's prayer meeting due to his commitments at the film festival, highlighting the depth of their connection.
Final Days of a Legend
Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The veteran actor died at his residence in Mumbai following age-related illness, just days before what would have been his 90th birthday on December 8.
His last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai, attended by family members and colleagues from the film industry who came to pay their final respects to the beloved star.
Aamir Khan's heartfelt revelations provide a touching glimpse into the personal side of Bollywood relationships and the enduring impact of Dharmendra's legacy on multiple generations of actors.
