Dharmendra Dies at 89 Highlights: Bollywood turns up at Pawan Hans to pay its last tributes

In a recently resurfaced video, Dharmendra was seen talking about living life to the fullest and also the act of letting go. He ended the video by asking his viewers and fans to enjoy their life.

Telugu icons Mahesh Babu and Allu Arjun expressed heartfelt condolences on the veteran actor’s passing, while cricket great Sachin Tendulkar also paid tribute to the late star.

Sachin wrote, “I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him. His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, “Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh jaata hai mera.” He had an effortless warmth, making everyone around him feel valued and special. It was impossible not to be a fan of the person he was. Today, my heart feels heavy with his passing. Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai. Will miss you (sic).”

Reflecting on their bond, Hema Malini, days before Dharmendra's death, had shared that she was ‘blessed’ to have Bollywood's ‘He-Man’, who was a ‘poet at heart’. Read here

Anupam Kher shared a video on X, reflecting on the nation’s loss following Dharmendra’s passing. She said, “Dharamji was undoubtedly the warmest and kindest man in the Indian Film Industry! He was the epitome of goodness. He was called a #HEMAN but undoubtedly with the softest and the most generous heart. His large heartedness was legendary! He was a fantastic actor with an amazing range of all the emotions! But when people talk more about the a person’s wonderful nature than his acting, that means the person will become folklore in the coming years! We will miss you #DharamJi! You will always remain the BESTEST! Om Shanti! 💔🕉💔 #HeartBroken (sic).”

TDP senior leader Rajendra Kumar Solanki expressed deep sorrow and offered a heartfelt tribute following the passing of veteran actor Dharmendra. He says, “Today, after hearing about the passing of Dharmendra Ji, we have been deeply saddened and filled with grief. Dharmendra Ji was not just an ordinary hero — he was a superstar. When we were children and his films were released, we used to quarrel at home and run away to watch them. Even getting a ticket for his films was extremely difficult, but we would watch them without fail..."

Remembering Dharmendra, Sanjay Dutt took to X and wrote, “Some people don’t just work in your life… they live in your heart. Dharam ji was one of them. It’s a void that can’t be described. My thoughts are with Sunny, Bobby, and the entire family… (sic).”

Actress Urmila Matondkar shared her deepest condolences on X and wrote, “At loss of words, Handsomest of them all n also warmest n nicest human being. After being a legendary star someone who could be so very charming n charismatic. You will be missed deeply sir!! RIP #DharmendraDeol. Heaven becomes even more beautiful with your entry in it!! (sic).”

Dharmendra's friend and the screenwriter of Sholay, Salim Khan, arrived at Pawan Hans to pay his respects to the legendary actor.

President of India, Droupadi Murmu addressed the passing of the legendary actor. “The demise of veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Shri Dharmendra Ji is a great loss to Indian cinema. One of the most popular actors, he delivered numerous memorable performances during his decades-long illustrious career. As a towering figure of Indian cinema, he leaves behind a legacy which will continue to inspire young generations of artists. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers,” she wrote on X.

Rahul Gandhi, 12th leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, took to X and sent his heartfelt condolences to the family. He wrote, “The news of the demise of the great actor Dharmendra ji is extremely heartbreaking and an irreparable loss for the Indian art world. His unparalleled contribution to cinema over nearly seven decades will always be remembered with respect and love. I offer my heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra ji. In this hour of grief, my condolences are with his bereaved family, friends, and fans (sic).”

Kunickaa Sadanand, who was evicted from Bigg Boss 19, shared her experience of working with the legendary actor. She told PTI, "I have worked with Dharmendra in a film, and he has been a legend. His contribution to cinema is immense, and his name will remain etched in film history.”

Kajol shared a super sweet picture of Dharmendra with her son Yug and captioned it, “The OG of the Good Man is gone and the world is poorer for it.. somehow it seems like we are only losing the good people in it. Kind to the core and loved always . RIP Dharamji .. with love always (sic).”

Priya Dutt, daughter of Sunil Dutt and sister of Sanjay Dutt, took to X to write a personal note for Dharmendra. She wrote, “The He-Man of Indian cinema is no more.. Dharmendra ji’s departure leaves a void that Indian cinema can never fill. His legacy will continue to inspire generations. Heartfelt condolences to the family in this moment of immense loss. Om Shanti (sic).”

Jr NTR, who was most recently seen in War 2 alongside Hrithik Roshan, shared his heartfelt condolences. He wrote on X, “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dharmendra ji. An era he defined can never be replaced and the warmth he brought to Indian cinema will stay with us forever. My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the entire family (sic).”

PM Narendra Modi is also mourning the loss of the beloved actor. He took to X and wrote, “The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti (sic).”

A procession of Bollywood stars arrived at the crematorium as Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Salman Khan, and Salim Khan paid their final respects to the legendary actor Dharmendra.

The atmosphere was heavy with grief as these prominent actors bid a poignant farewell to the 'He-Man' of Indian cinema, joining fans and family in mourning the loss of an iconic figure.

Fans worldwide are paying tribute to the actor. Many are talking about how he was still working on a film - ‘Ikkis’ - set to release next month, even at 90 years old. One fan wrote, "He worked till the end of his life. Even at 90, a film ready for release next month. Some stars never fade away. RIP Dharmendra." Another person said, "Legends live on through their work and the memories they created. Dharmendra Ji's legacy will live forever."

One of the most successful and popular leading actors of Hindi cinema, Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89, Hindustan Times reported. He was suffering from health issues and was receiving treatment at his home in the presence of his family after discharge from Mumbai hospital earlier this month. He was later cremated at the Pawan Hans crematorium in the presence of his family.

Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan and Amir Khan were seen at Vile Parle Crematorium in Mumbai.

Filmmaker Karan Johar in a post on Instagram wrote, “It is an end of an ERA….. a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence … he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema… defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history … but mostly he was the best human being… he was so loved by everyone in our industry.”

He added, "He only had immense love and positivity for everyone … his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe …. Today there is a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled by anyone … there will always be the one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much…. The heavens are blessed today…. It will always be my blessing to have worked with you…. And my heart says with respect, reverence and love…. Abhi Na jao chodke…. Ke dil abhi bhara nahi."

Sunny Deol arrived at Dharmendra's residence, as per Pinkvilla report.

Concerns about Dharmendra's health are doing the rounds as security arrangements have been beefed up at Mumbai's Pawan Hans crematorium, Mid Day reported. However, the family has not yet shared an official update on the actor's health condition.

Ikkis filmmakers on Monday shared the character poster of Dharmendra from the film. calling him a "timeless legend". In Sriram Raghavan's directorial film, the veteran actor plays the role of M L Khetarpal. Produced by Maddock Films, it is scheduled to release in theatres on December 25.
The character poster comes at a time there is speculation about Dharmendra's health.