Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran actor Dharmendra, stating that the country has lost a remarkable human being and an era has come to an end.
Reflecting on his memories, Gadkari shared, “I have many memories with him. I share a good relationship with his sons, and our family also has a connection with Hema Malini. He was someone who always helped others. The ‘postman spirit,’ as we describe it, truly defined his life. With his passing, we have lost a very good human being.”
BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain also mourned Dharmendra’s death, saying, “The passing of Dharmendra is deeply saddening for the country. We have lost a legend. I knew him personally, and with his demise, an era has truly ended.”
Dharmendra, who passed away at the age of 89, had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai but was discharged after showing signs of recovery. Sadly, he left for his heavenly abode as condolences poured in from across the industry. Reports indicated that he had been placed on a ventilator due to breathing difficulties. As the heartbreaking news spread through Bollywood circles, many members of the fraternity came to pay their last respects. Notably, Aamir Khan and Abhishek Bachchan were seen at the crematorium in Vile Parle. Karan Johar also paid tribute to the late actor on social media, while Dharmendra’s family was present at the cremation.
A few weeks prior, his wife Hema Malini had reassured the media about his health during an earlier hospital visit, stating he was alright. The actor had been living in Khandala, having relocated from Mumbai due to the deteriorating pollution levels.
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra emerged as one of Bollywood’s most enduring and beloved stars. He began his career in the early 1960s, having been discovered through a talent hunt competition organized by Filmfare magazine in collaboration with Bimal Roy Productions. In 1958, he won the competition, recognized for his striking looks and natural charm, which opened doors to the film industry.
Following this victory, he rapidly gained fame, celebrated for his versatile performances in romance, action, and comedy. Iconic films such as ‘Phool Aur Patthar’ established him as a leading man, while his role as the witty Veeru in ‘Sholay’ became legendary. His exceptional comic timing was showcased in ‘Chupke Chupke’, while action-packed dramas like ‘Yaadon Ki Baaraat’ solidified his status as the quintessential Bollywood hero.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Dharmendra’s humility and charisma made him a cherished figure on and off the screen. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India.