Bollywood Mourns the Loss of Veteran Actor Dharmendra
The Indian film industry is in mourning following the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra, who breathed his last in Mumbai on Monday morning. The veteran star was 89 years old and had been battling age-related health complications.
Dharmendra passed away on November 24 after a period of declining health. He had previously been hospitalized at Breach Candy Hospital in October when he experienced breathlessness. After receiving treatment, he was discharged on November 12 and continued his medical care at home until his final moments.
Film Fraternity Gathers for Final Farewell
The funeral service took place at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, where numerous Bollywood luminaries came to pay their respects. Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan were among the prominent figures who attended the cremation ceremony.
Later in the evening, the Deol family received condolences at their residence from several industry colleagues including Rekha, Kajol, and Preity Zinta, who visited to offer their support during this difficult time.
Emotional Tributes Pour In From Co-Stars
Amitabh Bachchan, who shared one of Indian cinema's most iconic partnerships with Dharmendra in the classic film Sholay, expressed his profound grief through an emotional tribute on X (formerly Twitter).
The megastar wrote, "Another valiant giant has left us… leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound. Dharam ji — the epitome of greatness… his smile, his charm and his warmth… a rarity in the profession. The air about us swings vacant… a vacuum that shall ever remain."
The Jai-Veeru pairing from Ramesh Sippy's Sholay (1975) remains one of the most beloved on-screen friendships in Indian cinema history, creating an enduring bond between the two actors that transcended their professional collaboration.
Legacy of the He-Man of Bollywood
Dharmendra, affectionately known as the "He-Man of Bollywood," leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that shaped Hindi cinema for more than six decades. His career spanned generations and included numerous iconic performances that cemented his status as a true legend.
Interestingly, Dharmendra's final film appearance will be in Ikkis, which also features Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda alongside Jaideep Ahlawat. The film is scheduled for release this Christmas, serving as a poignant final chapter in the actor's remarkable career.
The veteran star's passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, with his contributions to the industry continuing to inspire actors and filmmakers across the country. His work remains a testament to his incredible talent and enduring popularity among audiences of all ages.
