SRK's Heartbreaking Farewell to Dharmendra: "You Are Immortal"

The Indian film industry mourns the passing of Dharmendra, the legendary "He-Man" of Bollywood, who died on November 24, 2025, at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89 following a prolonged battle with age-related health issues. The veteran actor, hospitalized multiple times in recent months for respiratory complications at Breach Candy Hospital, had been discharged on November 12 and was recovering at home before his condition deteriorated suddenly.

Shah Rukh Khan, a close admirer of Dharmendra's enduring charisma, shared a profoundly moving tribute on X after attending the last rites at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai. Khan described the late star as a father figure who showered him with unwavering blessings and affection throughout his career. "Rest in Peace, Dharam ji. You were nothing short of a father figure to me... thank u for showering me with blessings and love the way you did. An inconsolable and irreplaceable loss to not just his family, but to cinema and film lovers world over. You are immortal... and your soul will live through your films and your beautiful family forever. Love you always," Khan wrote, capturing the collective sorrow rippling through the entertainment world.

A host of Bollywood luminaries gathered at the crematorium to pay their final respects, transforming the somber ceremony into a poignant assembly of cinema's giants. Amitabh Bachchan arrived with son Abhishek, while Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, and Salim Khan stood shoulder-to-shoulder in quiet solidarity. The atmosphere grew heavy as fans, barred from entry due to tight security, broke down in tears outside, their chants of "Dharamendra Zindabad" echoing the unbreakable bond between the icon and his devoted audience.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Shares Personal Memories of Dharmendra After his Passing

Dharmendra's six-decade odyssey in Hindi cinema encompassed over 300 films, from heart-wrenching romances like Phool Aur Patthar in the 1960s to blockbuster action sagas such as Sholay in the 1970s, where his portrayal of the rugged Veeru cemented his status as an unbeatable leading man. His effortless shift to comedic roles and later character parts earned him the Padma Bhushan in 2012, India's third-highest civilian honor, recognizing his profound influence on generations of filmmakers and performers.

Dharmendra's final cinematic outing, the war drama Ikkis co-starring Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda, remains slated for a posthumous release on December 25, 2025, ensuring his magnetic presence endures on screen. Survived by his wives Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and daughters Esha and Ahana Deol, the legend's legacy of resilience and warmth continues to inspire, as tributes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan flood social media, affirming his timeless place in the nation's cultural heart.

Also Read: Gautam Adani Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Dharmendra Following His Death At 89