Author: Ankita Singh

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan is heartbroken over the loss of his ‘Sholay’ co-star Dharmendra.

Expressing his profound grief at the passing of Dharmendra at 89, Amitabh shared a heartfelt tribute for his ‘Chupke Chupke’ co-star on social media.

Taking to his official X (formerly known as Twitter) handle, Big B wrote, “… another valiant Giant has left us .. left the arena .. leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound .. Dharam ji .. the epitome of greatness, ever linked not only for his renowned physical presence, but for the largeness of his heart and its most endearing simplicity ..(sic).”

He continued, “he brought with him the earthiness of the village in Punjab he came from, and remained true to its temperament .. unsoiled throughout his glorious career, in a fraternity that witnessed changes every decade .. the fraternity underwent changes .. not him .. his smile, his charm and his warmth, extending to all that came in his vicinity .. a rarity in the profession .. the air about us swings vacant .. a vacuum that shall ever remain vacuus .. prayers.”

Amitabh, along with other big names from Bollywood such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan, attended Dharmendra’s funeral at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle.

Dharmendra was recently hospitalized at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. Following necessary treatment, he was discharged on November 12 and continued his recovery at home. However, the legendary actor passed away on November 24.

For those unaware, Amitabh and Dharmendra have worked together in several memorable hits including “Sholay” (1975), “Chupke Chupke” (1975), “Ram Balram” (1980), “Naseeb” (1981), “The Burning Train” (1980), and “Hum Kaun Hai?” (1983).

Hollywood star Hugh Jackman has revealed that he will never say he is done playing Wolverine again.

Jackman initially announced he was finished with the iconic X-Men superhero after 2017’s ‘Logan’, which ended with the character’s death. However, recent reports suggest Jackman wasn’t entirely truthful about that.

He made a comeback as Wolverine seven years later in the 2024 Marvel blockbuster ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’.

In a recent appearance on ‘The Graham Norton Show’, Jackman remarked, “Every time you’re on (talk show), you gotta go, ‘Nope, I’m not doing that again’. But then you keep making another one. And it’s a big big hit. So are you gonna have to do it again? Maybe. I am never saying ‘never’ ever again. But I did mean it when I said ‘never’ (the first time), until the day when I changed my mind. But I really did for quite a few years, I meant it.”

According to ‘Variety’, during last year’s promotional tour for ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’, Jackman admitted that his feelings about staying retired from Wolverine became complicated after watching the first ‘Deadpool’ movie. He explained, “I was like, ‘Those two characters together’. I knew it. I knew the fans wanted it ever since I put on the claws; people talked about these two. So, that had always been there, but I just knew.” He then called Ryan Reynolds, saying, “Let’s do it,” before informing his agent he had committed to the project.

However, not everyone was convinced about his return as Wolverine. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige had initially advised the actor against reprising the role, stating, “I said, ‘Let me give you a piece of advice, Hugh. Don’t come back. You had the greatest ending in history with ‘Logan’. That’s not something we should undo’.”

Fans of Marvel movies eventually learned in ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’ that Jackman did not reprise the same version of Wolverine he portrayed for years. Thanks to Marvel’s multiverse, he was able to play a new variant of the beloved character.

Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan has paid tribute to the late actor Dharmendra after his passing.

The superstar shared a heartfelt throwback image with Dharmendra on his X account, formerly Twitter. He expressed, “Rest in Peace Dharam ji. You were nothing short of a father figure to me… thank u for showering me with blessings and love the way you did. An inconsolable and irreplaceable loss to not just his family, but to cinema and film lovers world over.”

Shah Rukh further added, “You are immortal, and your soul will live through your films and your beautiful family forever. Love you always.”

Dharmendra’s Legacy

Dharmendra was one of Bollywood’s most enduring and beloved stars. Born in 1935 in Punjab, he began his career in the early 1960s after being discovered through a talent hunt competition. In the late 1950s, Filmfare magazine, in partnership with Bimal Roy Productions, organized a nationwide contest to find fresh faces for Hindi cinema. Dharmendra participated and won in 1958, noticed for his striking looks and natural charm. This achievement paved the way for his entry into the film industry.

The same talent hunt later discovered Rajesh Khanna, who would become one of Hindi cinema’s greatest superstars. Dharmendra quickly rose to fame with his charming looks, emotional depth, and effortless on-screen presence. His versatility allowed him to excel in romance, action, and comedy. Some of his most iconic films include ‘Phool Aur Patthar’, which established him as a leading man, and ‘Sholay’, where his portrayal of the lovable, witty Veeru became legendary. Dharmendra was also a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.

Bollywood superstar Dharmendra’s demise has plunged the entire nation and the film industry into a profound state of grief. Fans mourn the loss of an exceptional human being and a cherished friend to many in Bollywood.

A Timeless Bond of Friendship

One of the most notable friendships was between Dharmendra and renowned movie writer Salim Khan. In a previous interview with Lehren TV, Salim Khan spoke about their relationship while on the sets of the Salman Khan and Kajol starrer ‘Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya.’

Reflecting on their enduring connection, Salim Khan revealed, “We have both known each other since 1958-1959. Both of us had seen a lot of struggle, and many things are common between us.” He described Dharmendra as a “wonderful person,” adding, “Whenever I thought about whom I should cast in Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya for this particular role, I first thought of Dharamji. He is like a family member and like an elder brother to us.”

Coincidental Timing of Loss

For those unacquainted, Dharmendra passed away on November 24, coincidentally marking Salim Khan’s 90th birthday. Along with writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar and actor Amitabh Bachchan, they gave the industry the cult classic movie Sholay. Dharmendra would have celebrated his 90th birthday on December 8 this year.

Final Farewell

The late superstar was cremated at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai. Numerous Bollywood celebrities, including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Deepika Padukone, gathered to pay their final respects. Earlier in mid-November, Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai but was discharged after showing signs of recovery.

Dharmendra is survived by his first wife, Prakash Kaur, and their four children Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Ajeta Deol, and Vijayta Deol, along with his second wife, Hema Malini, and their two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.

Superstar Dharmendra’s demise has sent shockwaves across the nation.

Numerous Bollywood celebrities, who admired the actor for his remarkable acting skills and his kind-hearted nature, expressed their condolences and paid tributes on social media.

Ibrahim Ali Khan’s Heartfelt Tribute

Actor Ibrahim Ali Khan, who had the privilege of working with Dharmendra in the 2024 film Rocky Aur Rani, shared a moving post on his social media account. Khan served as the assistant director on the project and reflected on how his mother, Bollywood actress Amrita Singh, entered the industry because of Dharmendra.

He wrote, “Some people aren’t just stars on screen; they change the course of lives.” Ibrahim elaborated on how the late superstar discovered his mother in Delhi when she was just 16 and trusted her with her debut film, Betaab. He added, “If it wasn’t for him, she may never have left Delhi… and we might not even exist.”

Ibrahim acknowledged Dharmendra’s pivotal role in his family’s journey, stating, “It’s overwhelming to think that our entire journey, our family, our place in this industry, all of it began because of him. A man whose kindness shaped destinies.” He continued, “Dharam Ji, you were devilishly handsome, effortlessly charming and truly timeless. Thank you for the wisdom you shared with me; I will hold onto your words for the rest of my life. My heart goes out to the entire Deol family. May they find strength through this difficult time.”

In bidding the superstar farewell, Ibrahim wrote, “Rest in peace, sir. You will live on forever,” adding a dove, a red heart, and a joining hands emoticon.

For context, Ibrahim Ali Khan’s mother, Amrita Singh, made her Bollywood debut with Betaab in 1983, starring alongside Dharmendra’s elder son, Sunny Deol, who also marked his entry into films with the same movie.

The film, produced by Vijayta Films, was a significant hit.

Dharmendra’s Final Farewell

Dharmendra, often referred to as the He-Man of Bollywood, passed away on November 24. He was cremated at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai, that same afternoon. Many prominent figures from Bollywood turned up at the funeral to pay their final respects.

Politician and actress Smriti Irani is heartbroken following the news of superstar Dharmendra’s passing. She shared a touching anecdote that reflects the generosity and kindness of the legendary actor.

In a heartfelt post on her social media, Smriti included an archived picture of Dharmendra sleeping on a bench and wrote, “He stunned me with his simplicity; his generosity was well known. He met my awe with humility.”

Recounting a personal experience with Dharmendra, Irani recalled, “I was all of 27 years old when I first asked him, ‘Could you please help me with my electoral campaign, for this is my first and I barely know what to do?’ He said, ‘Puttar, I’ll be there,’ and arrive he did to a horde of fans in Paharganj, Chandani Chowk, that held onto his every word, that watched in wonder this legend of ours.”

She expressed the depth of her emotions, stating, “He came like an elder would to help a young one in need. His loss feels personal; his life feels like I knew him every day. A formidable man, a soul that was gentle, his kindness spoke volumes as he smiled shyly at every compliment paid.” Smriti bid farewell with a poignant message: “Farewell, Sir … you leave behind millions heartbroken. Thank you for the smiles, the laughter, the blessings … thank you for being you #dharmendraji.”

Actor Vicky Kaushal also shared his condolences on social media, expressing his sadness: “Deeply saddened by this tragic news. You’ll always continue to be in our hearts, Dharam Ji. Om Shanti.”

Bollywood actress Preity Zinta, who has enjoyed a close bond with the Deols for over two decades, wrote an emotional tribute. “What do you say about a man that was all heart, so loving, so compassionate & one of the biggest superstars & a legend of Indian cinema?” she reflected. Preity added, “When I didn’t know him I loved him and when I met him I loved him even more. Words fail me as I feel sadness creep into my heart.” Concluding her message, she said, “I will miss you beyond words, Dharam Ji! Thank you for always being so kind and for being so generous and loving to me. Thank you for entertaining us and for uplifting others around you. You lit up so many lives. There will never be another like you. Rest in peace.”

For those unaware, Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89. He had recently been admitted to the hospital due to breathing issues and was placed on a ventilator but was later discharged and reportedly recovering at home.

Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal recently paid tribute to the late Dharmendra by sharing a monochromatic throwback picture of the legendary actor on his Instagram Stories. He captioned the image, “Deeply saddened by this tragic news. You will always continue to be in our hearts.”

Tamil cinema icon Rajinikanth also expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “Farewell, my friend. I will always remember your golden heart and the moments we shared. Rest in peace, Dharam ji. My deepest condolences to his family.”

Actor Arjun Kapoor shared a personal anecdote, revealing that his grandmother worked alongside Dharmendra in the film Farishtey. Along with throwback images, he reflected, “I had the pleasure as a child to experience his impish charm and magic, drawing the crowd waiting to watch him in action. End of an era. We have lost the He-Man of Bollywood, but his warmth, grace & legacy will live on forever. Thank you for touching generations with your art and your spirit, Dharam ji. You will be missed.”

Actress Kriti Kharbanda also shared a heartfelt throwback picture featuring herself and Dharmendra, writing, “Heart so heavy. Mind so numb. Rest in peace HE-MAN.”

Dharmendra was one of Bollywood’s most enduring and cherished stars. Born in 1935 in Punjab, he began his career in the early 1960s after being discovered through a nationwide talent hunt conducted by Filmfare magazine in collaboration with Bimal Roy Productions. Entering the contest in the late 1950s, he emerged as the winner in 1958, recognized for his striking looks and natural charisma. This achievement paved his way into the film industry.

That same talent search later identified Rajesh Khanna, who became one of Hindi cinema’s greatest superstars. Dharmendra swiftly garnered fame with his charming looks, emotional depth, and effortless screen presence. His versatility enabled him to excel across romance, action, and comedy genres. Some of his most legendary films include Phool Aur Patthar, which established him as a leading man, and Sholay, where he captured audiences as the beloved, witty character Veeru. Recognized for his contributions to cinema, Dharmendra was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.

Veteran actress Zeenat Aman is mourning the loss of Dharmendra. On Monday, she shared a few throwback images on her Instagram from movies where they appeared together.

In her heartfelt caption, she expressed her sadness, writing, “I am so sad to learn that the world lost a jewel from the Hindi film industry today. Dharam ji was always amongst my favourite co-stars, and I am blessed to have worked alongside him in a number of movies.”

Zeenat elaborated on Dharmendra’s character, stating, “For an introverted personality such as myself, his down-to-earth demeanour and natural kindness were a warm comfort on set. At times when the pressure, glitz, and glam felt horribly garish, there he was with no pretences or guile. A sweet reminder that life is about the real things, not the fluff. My heartfelt condolences to his family; may it be of some solace that his legacy is cherished by millions of Inddigihunt around the world.”

Dharmendra was one of Bollywood’s most enduring and beloved stars. Born in 1935 in Punjab, he began his career in the early 1960s after being discovered through a talent hunt competition. In the late 1950s, Filmfare magazine, in collaboration with Bimal Roy Productions, organized a nationwide contest to find new faces for Hindi cinema.

Dharmendra entered the competition and won in 1958, recognized for his striking looks and natural charm. This victory opened the door to the film industry, and the same talent hunt later discovered Rajesh Khanna, one of Hindi cinema’s biggest superstars.

He quickly rose to fame, thanks to his charming looks, emotional depth, and effortless screen presence. His versatility allowed him to excel in romance, action, and comedy alike. Some of his most iconic films include ‘Phool Aur Patthar,’ which established him as a leading man, and ‘Sholay,’ where his portrayal of the lovable, witty Veeru became legendary.

Dharmendra was also a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award of India.

After the cremation of the late actor Dharmendra, several prominent figures from Bollywood visited his residence to offer condolences to the grieving family.

Family and Friends Gather

Farhan Akhtar, son of Javed Akhtar—who co-wrote the iconic film ‘Sholay’ with Salim Khan—was seen arriving with his sister Zoya Akhtar and mother Honey Rani.

Notably, Salim Khan celebrated his birthday on the same day Dharmendra passed away. He had earlier been seen at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle during the cremation ceremony.

Bollywood Stars Pay Their Respects

In addition to the Akhtar family, actress Kajol, veteran actor Sanjay Khan along with his son Zayed Khan, legendary actress Rekha, and actress Shilpa Shetty with her husband Raj Kundra were also present at Dharmendra’s home.

A Look Back at Dharmendra’s Legacy

Dharmendra was one of Bollywood’s most cherished stars. Born in 1935 in Punjab, he began his acting career in the early 1960s after being discovered through a nationwide talent hunt. In the late 1950s, Filmfare magazine teamed up with Bimal Roy Productions to find fresh faces for Hindi cinema.

He emerged victorious in the 1958 contest, recognized for his remarkable looks and natural charisma—this win opened the door to his illustrious film career. This same contest later discovered Rajesh Khanna, who became one of Hindi cinema’s biggest icons.

His rise to fame was swift, thanks to his appealing looks, emotional depth, and effortless screen presence. Dharmendra’s versatility shone through in various genres, including romance, action, and comedy. Some of his most memorable films include ‘Phool Aur Patthar’—which established him as a lead actor—and ‘Sholay’, where his portrayal of the charming and witty Veeru became legendary.

In recognition of his contributions, Dharmendra was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.

The Bollywood industry has been engulfed in shock and sorrow since the heartbreaking news of superstar Dharmendra’s demise surfaced. Renowned actors Madhuri Dixit, Sonali Bendre, Mahima Chaudhary, and Anushka Sharma took to their social media accounts to pay tribute to the late legend.

Madhuri Dixit’s Emotional Farewell

Madhuri shared a charming picture of Dharmendra, accompanying it with a heartfelt farewell note. She expressed, “An icon who defined grace, strength, and humility. Dharamji, your loss leaves a void that can never be filled. Your legacy goes beyond the screen; it lives in the love and admiration of millions. Your remarkable body of work, your humility, and your ever-endearing spirit have left an indelible mark on this industry. Thank you for inspiring, entertaining, and touching hearts across decades. Forever remembered, forever cherished.”

Sonali Bendre Remembers a Warm Heart

Actress Sonali Bendre shared a candid picture with Dharmendra, writing, “The warmest heart and the loveliest smile… you’ll always be remembered with so much love.”

Anushka Sharma’s Heartfelt Condolences

Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma also expressed her sorrow, stating, “Deeply saddened by Dharamji’s passing, a legendary icon whose warmth, talent, and grace shaped Indian cinema. His legacy will live on in our hearts. Om Shanti.”

Mahima Chaudhary’s Fond Memories

90s star Mahima Chaudhary shared an old picture with her mother and Dharmendra, reminiscing, “Dharamji, mumma and me… my mother’s biggest crush… This was my mom’s greatest moment, sitting next to you… It’s so painful to say goodbye, but you had a life that was truly celebrated.”

She added, “You were synonymous with handsome… Dancing with you on our tour in America in the 2000s to all your iconic songs was one of my life’s greatest achievements… a massive megastar… The only thing we likely shared was our Jaat blood; you made our Jaat community so proud… You were so loved; you will be truly missed Sir, the one and only DHARAMJI.”

The superstar passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a monumental legacy. Many prominent figures from the entertainment industry paid their final respects by visiting the crematorium on the same day.