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.