IFFI Pays Tribute to Bollywood Legend Dharmendra
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has made significant changes to its schedule following the sad news of veteran actor Dharmendra's passing. The beloved Bollywood icon, who was just days away from celebrating his 90th birthday, passed away after a brief illness in Mumbai.
Entertainment Programs Cancelled as Mark of Respect
All entertainment programs scheduled for November 24 at the film festival have been officially cancelled. This decision includes the cancellation of the traditional folk performance, Romtamel, along with various other on-stage events that were planned for the day.
However, festival organizers have confirmed that film screenings at all festival venues will proceed as scheduled. This balanced approach allows the festival to continue while paying appropriate respect to the legendary actor.
Official Tributes and Condolences
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed his grief through a post on the microblogging platform X (formerly Twitter). The CM wrote, "Deeply saddened by the demise of legendary actor Dharmendra ji, one of Indian cinema's most beloved and enduring icons. My heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and millions of admirers across the nation."
The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) organized a special tribute by observing a one-minute silence before the screening of a movie in the Goan films section. Delegates and participants at the festival joined together to pay their respects to the departed soul.
Dharmendra, who was scheduled to celebrate his 90th birthday on December 8, had been experiencing health issues since the beginning of November and was hospitalized before his unfortunate demise. The exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed by the family.
