New Delhi/Bhubaneswar : The death of legendary actor Dharmendra at 89 has drawn an emotional wave of condolences from national leaders and senior state personalities, reflecting the monumental stature he held in Indian cinema.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Dharmendra’s passing marked “the conclusion of a golden chapter in Indian film history.” Sharing his tribute on X, the Prime Minister hailed him as “a remarkable artist and an unforgettable screen presence who infused life and sincerity into every character.” Modi described the veteran star as a man whose “grace, kindness and grounded nature endeared him to generations.” He extended prayers to the bereaved family and millions of admirers across the world.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound sorrow, calling Dharmendra’s departure “a deep loss for Indian cinema.” She noted that he was “one of the most cherished and influential actors of his era, credited with a treasure of memorable performances that captivated audiences for decades.” The President said his towering legacy would continue to guide and inspire young performers for generations.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also conveyed his grief, stating on X that he was “deeply pained to hear of the passing of the legendary Shri Dharmendra Ji.” The Chief Minister wrote that Dharmendra’s extraordinary acting range and magnetic screen presence made him one of the most beloved stars of Indian entertainment. He offered condolences to the family and wished eternal peace to the departed soul, adding, “Om Shanti.”
Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo remembered the actor as “Bollywood’s He-Man, Dharam Paaji,” praising the unmatched charm and heroic persona that defined his illustrious six-decade journey. He said Dharmendra’s charisma and evergreen appeal “secure him a permanent place in cinema’s hall of legends and in the hearts of millions of fans.”
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida too mourned the loss, sharing her tribute in both Hindi and Odia. She said Dharmendra’s remarkable acting prowess and captivating personality left a lasting imprint on audiences across generations. She offered prayers for the eternal peace of his soul and conveyed solidarity with the family and admirers.
Widely celebrated as “Dharam Paaji,” Dharmendra delivered some of Indian cinema’s most enduring classics, including Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, and Chupke Chupke. His six-decade career shaped the golden era of mainstream Bollywood and established him as one of the most iconic figures in the industry. His legacy continues to shine brightly, inspiring artists and movie lovers even today.
