Actress Hema Malini and her daughter Esha Deol were seen with folded hands outside the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai, following the cremation of Dharmendra.
Star-studded Farewell
The prominent figures from the Bollywood industry gathered at the crematorium to pay their last respects. Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai but was later discharged as he showed signs of recovery. Unfortunately, he passed away on Monday after battling breathing difficulties, during which he was reportedly on a ventilator.
As the news of his demise circulated in Bollywood circles, many of his colleagues paid tribute. Notable stars like Aamir Khan and Abhishek Bachchan attended the cremation, while multi-hyphenate Karan Johar shared his memories of the late actor on social media. Dharmendra’s family was also present to honor him.
A Lasting Legacy
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra began his cinematic journey in the early 1960s after winning a nationwide talent contest organized by Filmfare magazine and Bimal Roy Productions. In 1958, he was selected for his striking looks and natural charm, paving his way into Bollywood. This same contest later discovered Rajesh Khanna, one of the biggest superstars in Hindi cinema.
Steadily, Dharmendra rose to fame with his appealing looks and versatile acting, excelling in romance, action, and comedy. His iconic films include ‘Phool Aur Patthar,’ which solidified his status as a leading man, and ‘Sholay,’ where his portrayal of the lovable Veeru became legendary.
In recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema, Dharmendra was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honor in India.