Bollywood Grieves as Iconic Actor Dharmendra Passes Away at 89

Legendary actor Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. His demise has created an irreplaceable void in Bollywood, prompting an outpouring of love and tributes from colleagues, co-stars and admirers.

A host of prominent personalities gathered at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans Crematorium to bid their final farewell. Among the earliest to arrive was Aamir Khan, followed by Salman Khan, who had always regarded Dharmendra as a father figure. Abhishek Bachchan, veteran writer Salim Khan, and several other notable names were also present to offer their respects.

Hema Malini, deeply grief-stricken, was seen leaving after performing the last rites of her husband. Saira Banu, who shared a sibling-like bond with Dharmendra, made a rare public appearance to pay homage. Ranveer Singh appeared visibly emotional, while Govinda drove himself to the cremation ground to honour the late star. Kajol, Mika Singh, Zoya Akhtar and her mother, Honey Irani, Farhan Akhtar, Sanjay Khan, Zayed Khan, Sussanne Khan, Farah Khan Ali, and Shilpa Shetty Kundra were also among those in attendance.

Amitabh Bachchan Remembers His ‘Sholay’ Co-Star

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the industry, including heartfelt messages from Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Karan Johar, Preity Zinta and many more. Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra’s co-star in the iconic film Sholay, shared an emotional note on social media, reflecting on the immense loss.

“Another valiant giant has left us… leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound,” Bachchan wrote. He described Dharmendra as “the epitome of greatness,” admired not only for his commanding screen presence but also for his generous heart and unpretentious nature.

Bachchan went on to emphasize how Dharmendra remained grounded despite the industry’s ever-shifting landscape: “He brought with him the earthiness of the village in Punjab he came from, and remained true to its temperament… unsullied throughout his glorious career. The fraternity underwent changes… not him.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Dharmendra was just weeks away from celebrating his 90th birthday on December 8—a milestone in a career that has inspired generations. His final film, Ikkis, is slated for release this December. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the biographical war drama stars Agastya Nanda—Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson—alongside Jaideep Ahlawat.

Dharmendra’s warmth, charm and humility will continue to resonate, leaving behind a legacy that Bollywood will cherish forever.