Actor Nikitin Dheer recently shared a touching tribute on social media, reflecting on the warmth and legacy of the late Dharmendra.
Nikitin, son of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, recalled conversations with his father about the film industry’s most successful heroes. He wrote, “My Dad & I used to often discuss who is the most successful hero of all time in our film industry; he would say Dharam uncle, without batting an eyelid…” He emphasized his father’s admiration for Dharmendra, stating, “He used to always add, ‘the most manly, the most handsome, the most humble and the man with a golden heart…an absolute original…Dharam uncle….’”
In a heartfelt anecdote, Nikitin described Dharmendra’s kindness during a difficult time for his family. “When my dad passed, Dharam uncle called my mom from the ICU and expressed his love and condolences and told Mom that he will be back home soon, not to worry…” He expressed, “His loss feels deeply personal… we grew up in his arms… got only love and blessings from him…. Always saw him with that smile that lit up the room… hand always raised to bless us… thank you for the invaluable contribution to cinema… thank you for filling our childhood with joy… thank you for showing us what a man can and should be…”
Nikitin concluded with a poignant message, stating, “No one can fill the space you have left… there shall never be another DHARMENDRA…” He extended his heartfelt condolences to Dharmendra’s family, expressing “Utmost love and respect always, Aum Shanti,” along with a joining hands emoticon.
Dharmendra passed away on November 24, at the age of 89, leaving the entire nation in mourning. Notable figures from the film industry, including SRK, Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Ranveer Singh, gathered at the crematorium to pay their final respects.
Nikitin’s father, the late actor Pankaj Dheer, passed away on October 15 after battling cancer.