Bollywood actress Esha Deol ushered in the New Year from the vibrant city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, but her celebrations were tinged with profound personal loss. While embracing the positivity of 2026, the actor's heart was heavy with the memory of her father, the iconic film star Dharmendra, who passed away recently.
A New Year Celebration with a Missing Heart
Esha Deol chose to celebrate the beginning of 2026 in Dubai. She shared moments from her New Year's Eve on Instagram, radiating hope and love for the coming year. However, a significant part of her thoughts was elsewhere, with her late father. In a poignant gesture, one of the pictures she posted showed her pointing towards the sky. The image was specially edited to flash the words "Love you papa" across the night sky, a direct and public message to her beloved father. She captioned the entire post with a hopeful wish: "Stay blessed, happy, healthy, and strong."
Remembering a Legend: Dharmendra's Enduring Legacy
The backdrop to this emotional New Year's post is the immense loss felt across India and the film industry. The legendary actor Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, creating a deep void in Hindi cinema. His demise was mourned by millions of fans and colleagues, with tributes pouring in for the star who left an indelible mark on Indian popular culture for decades.
Esha's Heartfelt Promise to Her Papa
Alongside the celebratory pictures, Esha Deol penned an extensive, emotional note on Instagram, reflecting on the unbreakable bond she shared with her father. She addressed him directly, writing, "To my darling Papa..Our pact, the strongest bond . 'us' through all our lifetimes, all the realms and beyond....." She expressed her belief that they remain connected, stating they are always together, whether in heaven or on earth.
She described how she has now tenderly tucked him deep within her heart to carry forward. Esha fondly recalled the essence of their relationship:
- The magical and precious memories they created together.
- The invaluable life lessons, teachings, and guidance he provided.
- His unmatched warmth and unconditional love.
- The dignity and strength he instilled in her as his daughter.
Esha confessed to missing him painfully, especially his "warm protective hugs" that felt like the cosiest blanket, and the sound of his voice calling her name, which would lead to long conversations filled with laughter and poetry (shayaris). She remembered his personal motto: "always be humble, be happy, healthy & strong."
In a powerful closing, Esha Deol made a promise to her father. She vowed to continue his legacy with pride and respect and to spread his love to the millions of admirers who cherished him as much as she does. She signed off with, "I love you pap, Your darling daughter, Your Esha, your Bittu." This touching tribute from a daughter in Dubai underscores how the new year begins with remembrance, love, and a commitment to honour a timeless legend.
