The Indian film industry is mourning the sudden demise of veteran actor Dharmendra. Known as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” the legendary star passed away at the age of 89 after battling age-related health complications. His death has left fans, colleagues, and admirers in shock, as they remember his iconic screen presence and immense contribution to Indian cinema.
Priyanka Chopra’s Emotional Tribute
Global star Priyanka Chopra was among the first to share her heartfelt memories. She recalled her humble beginnings in Bollywood when she signed her first film under Dharmendra’s production house, Vijayata Films. She wrote about how his family welcomed her warmly during her debut in Hero: Love Story of a Spy alongside Sunny Deol. Priyanka emphasized that Dharmendra’s kindness and warmth made her feel at home in the industry at a time when she was unknown.
South Legends Rajinikanth and Allu Arjun Remember Dharam Ji
Tributes poured in not only from Bollywood but also from South Indian cinema. Superstar Rajinikanth expressed his sorrow, calling Dharmendra a true icon whose legacy will live forever. Similarly, Allu Arjun shared his grief, highlighting how Dharmendra’s films inspired actors across generations and regions.
Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra Share Their Memories
Filmmaker Karan Johar described Dharmendra’s passing as “a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled.” His words reflected the collective grief of Bollywood. Fashion designer Manish Malhotra also posted a heartfelt note along with a picture from the sets of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. He remembered growing up watching Dharmendra’s films in the 70s, admiring his comic timing, style, and charisma. Malhotra wrote that Dharam Ji was warm and loving on set, and his loss is one that fans never wanted to face.
Actress Shilpa Shetty shared a sweet picture with Dharmendra and expressed her privilege of working with him. She praised his humility and kindness, saying that while his looks and talent were remarkable, it was his simplicity and generosity that truly inspired her. She called him a “true original” who touched countless hearts.
Farhan Akhtar Bows to Six Decades of Entertainment
Actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar honored Dharmendra’s six-decade-long career. He wrote that Dharam Ji’s contribution to cinema was irreplaceable, both for those who make movies and for those who watch them. Farhan’s words captured the magnitude of Dharmendra’s legacy.
Ajay Devgn and Kajol Express Heartbreak
Ajay Devgn shared his grief in an Instagram story, remembering his warmth and generosity. He said the industry had lost a legend who shaped the soul of Indian cinema. Kajol, on the other hand, posted a picture of Dharmendra with her son, expressing sadness over losing the “OG of the Good Man.”
Both Kareena Kapoor and Kiara Advani paid tribute by posting nostalgic black-and-white photos of Dharmendra. Their posts reflected admiration for his timeless charm and evergreen appeal.
Akshay Kumar And Other Actors Join in
Several Bollywood actors including Akshay Kumar, Ishaan Khatter, Ali Fazal, Ananya Panday, Boman Irani, and Raveena Tandon also expressed their grief. Each of them remembered Dharmendra as a legend whose influence shaped their love for cinema.
Sushmita Sen posted a picture with Dharmendra, calling him an incredible human being and bidding him a sweet goodbye. Manoj Bajpayee, star of The Family Man 3, shared that Dharmendra was his parents’ favorite actor and one of his childhood heroes. He praised Dharam Ji’s humble personality and said his influence stretched across generations.
Sanjay Dutt’s Emotional Note to the Deol Family
Actor Sanjay Dutt extended his condolences to the Deol family. He wrote that Dharmendra was not just someone who worked in people’s lives but someone who lived in their hearts. He described the void left behind as indescribable and offered his support to Sunny, Bobby, and the entire family.
Actors Sidharth Malhotra, Varun Dhawan, Madhuri Dixit, and Ranveer Singh also shared pictures with Dharmendra, remembering him with love and respect. Their tributes highlighted how Dharam Ji’s warmth touched every generation of actors.
On the professional front, Dharmendra was set to appear in Sriram Raghavan’s war biopic Ikkis. He plays the role of a proud father alongside Agastya Nanda. The makers released an intense poster featuring Dharmendra, which now stands as his final on-screen presence. The film is scheduled to premiere on December 25, making it a bittersweet farewell for fans.
Dharmendra’s passing has united Bollywood and South cinema in grief. From Priyanka Chopra and Karan Johar to Rajinikanth and Allu Arjun, tributes have poured in from every corner of the industry. His warmth, humility, and unmatched screen presence made him more than just a star; he was a beloved figure who shaped the very soul of Indian cinema. As fans await his last film Ikkis, they carry forward his legacy with admiration and love.
