In a touching display of admiration that spans decades, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has openly expressed his profound respect for veteran actor Dharmendra, whom he considers his real-life superhero. This heartfelt bond has come into focus once again as the film industry rallies around the 89-year-old icon, who is currently recovering at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital.
Dharmendra's Health Update and Industry Support
Veteran actor Dharmendra, who has been admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital since October 31, is reportedly responding well to treatment and is in stable condition, according to sources close to his family. The entertainment industry has shown overwhelming support for the beloved actor, with numerous Bollywood stars visiting the hospital to check on his wellbeing.
On Monday night, the hospital saw a stream of film industry personalities including Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, who came to inquire about Dharmendra's health and offer support to his family. Shah Rukh Khan, who has always maintained deep affection for the senior actor, was also among those who arrived to show his concern and solidarity during this time.
SRK's Childhood Admiration for Dharmendra
The special connection between the two actors goes back to Shah Rukh Khan's school days, where his admiration for Dharmendra first took root. In an interview on Aap Ki Adalat, SRK revealed an endearing childhood memory: "My school was very strict, and I used to have long hair. Every day in the assembly, the principal would send me back to get a haircut. So, I used to go to Gol Market, and on some days, I'd get a Dharam Ji haircut, and on other days, a Bachchan haircut."
This childhood fascination evolved into a deep professional respect over the years. During the promotion of his 2011 superhero film Ra.One, Shah Rukh appeared on the reality show India's Got Talent, where Dharmendra was serving as one of the judges. When asked about his real-life superhero, SRK's emotional response visibly moved the veteran actor.
A Bond That Transcends Generations
Shah Rukh Khan's declaration about Dharmendra during the India's Got Talent episode remains one of the most touching moments in their relationship. "All my family is Punjabi, and for us, there's only one superhero, Dharam Pajji. We have no other superhero," SRK stated with genuine emotion.
He further shared a poignant memory from his childhood that highlighted Dharmendra's influence on his personal life: "My mother often had pain in her feet, and there was this song by Dharam ji. I used to massage her feet and sing that song to entertain her. The song was 'Are Rafta Rafta Dekho Ankh Meri Ladi Hai.'"
This mutual respect has frequently surfaced on social media platforms in recent years. When Dharmendra took to X (formerly Twitter) to wish Shah Rukh Khan success for his blockbuster film Jawan, he wrote affectionately: "Shah Rukh, bete? wish you a great luck ? for Jawan?."
SRK's warm reply encapsulated their bond: "Love you sir. Thank u so much. Will come over and take a tight hug."
As Dharmendra continues his recovery in hospital, with family members including Sunny and Bobby Deol by his side, the entertainment industry and fans alike await positive news about the health of the man who has been a real-life superhero to generations of actors and movie lovers.
