Dharmendra dies: Celebrities offer tribute to their beloved icon

The Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. A towering presence in Bollywood, Dharmendra was celebrated for his roles in timeless classics such as ‘Sholay’, ‘Phool Aur Patthar’, ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’, and ‘Yaadon Ki Baraat’. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken. Filmmaker Karan Johar, who directed Dharmendra in the 2023 romantic drama ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’, expressed his grief on social media, calling him ‘the embodiment of a hero in mainstream cinema’ and ‘an enigmatic screen presence’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, describing Dharmendra as ‘an iconic film personality’ whose diverse roles resonated with millions. Modi highlighted the actor’s humility and warmth, extending condolences to his family and fans. Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan shared nostalgic photos of Dharmendra with her grandfather, Raj Kapoor, while Shilpa Shetty praised his kindness and originality. Sanjay Dutt and Akshay Kumar also shared heartfelt messages, with Kumar referring to Dharmendra as ‘the industry’s original He-Man’. Dharmendra’s legacy as a versatile actor and a beloved figure in Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations.