Bollywood's most prominent figures came together in an emotional gathering on Thursday evening to pay their respects to the legendary actor Dharmendra. The special prayer meeting, organized by the Deol family, saw unprecedented attendance from the film industry's biggest names who gathered to honor the memory of the beloved star.
Star-Studded Gathering at Taj Lands End
The event, named 'Celebration of Life', was held at the picturesque lawns of Taj Lands End in Bandra between 5 pm and 7.30 pm. The venue became a focal point for former co-stars, close friends, and numerous film industry members who came to offer their prayers and share their memories of the veteran actor.
Among the early arrivals were Shah Rukh Khan, who was captured by paparazzi making his way to the venue to stand by the Deol family during this difficult time. The superstar joined the gathering in collective prayer for the late icon, demonstrating the strong bonds within the Bollywood community.
The Bachchan family was also prominently present, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan arriving among the first attendees. Their presence highlighted the deep respect and admiration the industry holds for Dharmendra, whose career spanned an incredible six decades.
Timeline of Events and Industry Support
This prayer meeting came just four days after a private funeral was conducted for the actor on Monday. Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, sending shockwaves through the film industry and leaving millions of fans mourning worldwide.
His last rites on November 24 were attended by immediate family members and select industry colleagues, including an impressive roster of Bollywood's biggest names: Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salim Khan, Shabana Azmi, Sanjay Dutt, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone.
Khan Trio's Immediate Response
The industry's support for the Deol family was evident even before the actor's passing. Earlier this month, when reports surfaced that Dharmendra's health had taken a turn for the worse during a routine check-up hospitalization, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan immediately rushed to the hospital to be with the family.
Although the veteran actor was discharged after a few days and sent home to recover under medical supervision, the industry was caught by surprise when news of his demise emerged on Monday. The sudden turn of events left the entire film fraternity and his countless admirers in a state of shock and profound grief.
Fondly remembered as the He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that includes numerous iconic performances and a career that touched multiple generations of cinema lovers. His contribution to Indian cinema remains unparalleled, and his absence will be deeply felt across the entertainment industry.
