Bollywood legend Dharmendra was remembered with deep emotion by his family on Sunday, December 8, which would have marked his 90th birthday. The veteran actor, fondly known as 'He-Man', passed away on November 24, leaving a profound void in the Indian film industry and in the hearts of his loved ones.
Esha Deol's Heartfelt Promise to Her Father
His daughter, actress Esha Deol, took to Instagram to share an intensely personal and emotional note alongside cherished photographs with her father. She addressed him directly, writing, "To my darling Papa. Our pact, the strongest bond." Esha expressed the enduring nature of their connection, stating they would be together "through all our lifetimes, all the realms and beyond."
She described how she has now tenderly tucked him away deep in her heart to carry with her for the rest of her life. Esha reminisced about the irreplaceable gifts he gave her: life lessons, teachings, guidance, warmth, and unconditional love. She poignantly added that she painfully misses his protective hugs, his soft yet strong hands, and his voice calling her name followed by endless conversations and laughter.
Carrying Forward a Legacy of Humility and Strength
In her tribute, Esha made a significant promise. She vowed to continue her father's legacy with pride and respect, adhering to his motto: "always be humble, be happy, healthy and strong." She also pledged to spread his love to his millions of admirers. Esha signed off as his "darling daughter, your Esha, your Bittu," showcasing the intimate family nicknames.
Abhay Deol's Childhood Memory
Dharmendra's nephew, actor Abhay Deol, also shared a touching memory on the somber occasion. He posted a childhood photograph from around 1985 or 1986, where a young Abhay is seen sitting beside his uncle. Abhay recalled that he had just been scolded and was upset when Dharmendra called him over.
"He called me to him, sat me down by his side and said, 'look at the light', and had the photographer click this pic," Abhay wrote. He added a moving line, "I look forward to the moment I hear him say those words to me again, when my time comes." This simple anecdote beautifully captured Dharmendra's gentle and guiding nature within the family.
The birth anniversary tributes come just weeks after the actor's passing, which occurred shortly before the planned celebrations for his milestone 90th year. Previously, his wife, veteran actress Hema Malini, had also paid a moving tribute, calling him her loving husband, adoring father, friend, philosopher, and guide.
The collective grief and heartfelt memories shared by the Deol family offer a glimpse into the personal life of the iconic star, revealing him not just as a cinematic hero but as a cherished patriarch whose legacy of love, strength, and humility continues to inspire.
