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.