New Delhi : Tributes poured in from every corner of the Indian entertainment world as actors, filmmakers and colleagues mourned the passing of Dharmendra — the beloved star whose influence spanned more than six decades and over 300 films. The 89-year-old actor, often hailed as Hindi cinema’s “original He-Man,” breathed his last on Monday, according to a police communiqué, though his family has yet to issue an official statement.
For many, the legendary performer wasn’t just an actor but a cultural force — a figure who shaped mainstream Hindi cinema with his charm, screen presence and human warmth.
Akshay Kumar, sharing a nostalgic photograph, said Dharmendra was the ultimate hero for an entire generation of Indian boys.
“Dharmendra ji was the man every youngster aspired to be… the industry’s first real He-Man. Generations looked up to him. His films will keep him alive forever. Om shanti,” he posted on X.
Ajay Devgn recalled Dharmendra’s kindness and generosity off screen.
“With his passing, cinema has lost a pillar. Dharam ji helped shape the heart and soul of our industry. Rest in peace, Sir. Om Shanti,” he wrote.
Filmmaker Karan Johar, who directed Dharmendra in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani in 2023, penned a heartfelt message on Instagram.
“For me, this marks the end of a monumental era. A superstar with unmatched charisma, the definition of a leading man… but above all, a wonderful human being adored by every single person he met,” he wrote, adding that the void left behind “feels impossible to fathom.”
“He radiated love and positivity. There will never be another Dharam ji. To have worked with him was a blessing I will cherish forever.”
Allu Arjun expressed grief on his Instagram story, calling Dharmendra “a legend who won millions of hearts,” while Kareena Kapoor Khan posted a series of photos captioned simply, “Forever in power.”
Madhuri Dixit described him as “an icon who reflected grace, humility and strength,” noting that his absence leaves “a vacuum that can never truly be filled.”
A note from Aamir Khan Productions read, “Forever in our hearts. Rest in peace, Dharam ji.”
Filmmaker Farhan Akhtar said the veteran actor’s death was a “monumental loss for world cinema,” adding, “We were privileged to witness his warmth, his humour, his strength and his wit both on and off the screen.”
Actor Manoj Bajpayee wrote that Dharmendra was among his parents’ favourites and one of his own childhood idols.
“You felt his warmth even before he said a word. His humour, dignity and aura made a lasting impact on everyone. Losing him feels deeply personal,” he said.
Triptii Dimri wrote, “Your light lives on,” while Ranveer Singh posted a picture of them together without any caption — a silent tribute.
Suniel Shetty summed up Dharmendra’s legacy in a single sentiment:
“Power wrapped in grace, stardom wrapped in kindness, heroism wrapped in a pure heart. That was Dharam Paaji. Our He-Man to the world, but pure warmth to those who knew him.”
Kajol shared a photo of her son Yug with the late actor, writing,
“The world has lost the OG good man. His kindness was endless. RIP Dharam ji, with love.”
Raveena Tandon called him “the man with the golden heart and the handsomest face to ever grace the silver screen.”
Bengali star Prosenjit Chatterjee thanked Dharmendra for “the magic he gifted audiences for decades.”
Varun Dhawan remembered him as “larger than life on screen and unbelievably gentle in person,” while Sidharth Malhotra wrote,
“Decades of memories and magic… thank you for everything, Dharam sir.”
Rashmika Mandanna called his passing the departure of “a legend,” and Bhumi Pednekar said his contributions will remain “a permanent part of India’s cultural memory.”
Comic actor Rajpal Yadav added,
“His journey may have ended, but the love he spread will echo through generations.”
Siddhant Chaturvedi summed up the feeling of millions:
“Heroes fade from the screen, but legends never leave our hearts.”
A Life Written in Celluloid
Born Dharam Singh Deol in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra rose from humble beginnings to become one of Indian cinema’s most adored personalities. His versatility allowed him to shine equally in comedy, action, romance and drama — headlining classics like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Anupama and Seeta Aur Geeta.
With rugged charm, unmatched screen presence and an innate ability to connect with viewers, he earned a place alongside the greatest names in Indian film history.
He is survived by his wife Prakash Kaur, Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha, and Ahana.
For millions, Dharmendra was more than a star — he was a symbol of an age of innocence, charisma and heartfelt storytelling. And though the curtain falls on one of Indian cinema’s brightest lights, his legacy will continue to shine for generations.
