In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, director Anil Sharma shared his experiences working with Dharmendra and also recalled the first time he met the veteran actor.

He shared that while working as an assistant director on the sets of The Burning Train, he met Dharmendra.

#NDTVExclusive | While speaking with NDTV's @Aditi14Bhardwaj, Apne Director Anil Sharma (@Anilsharma_dir) recalls working with Dharmendra#dharmendradeol pic.twitter.com/s6GwZJGGlZ

— NDTV (@ndtv) November 24, 2025

Dharmendra's death was widely mourned across the industry and covered extensively by international media, highlighting his iconic six-decade career and enduring legacy in Indian cinema. Read the full story here. 

Taking to X, Mohanlal penned a heartfelt note and called Dharmendra's death "the end of a cinematic era." He further added, "A legend whose warmth and artistry will live on forever. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti."

The passing of Dharmendraji marks the end of a cinematic era. A legend whose warmth and artistry will live on forever. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti.

— Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) November 24, 2025

An old video of Dharmendra resurfaced on X showing the legendary actor fondly recalling a memorable breakfast invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Read the full story here.

Govinda shared a throwback picture with Dharmendra on Instagram and wrote, "No one can be like you, love you my ustad forever."

In an exclusive conversation with NDTV's Padmaja Joshi, Ramesh Sippy revealed how Dharmendra became Sholay's Veeru. Read the full story here. 

Expressing the depth of his grief, Shah Rukh Khan wrote on X, "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." Read the full story here. 

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… pic.twitter.com/Vsxe8C8qVZ

— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) November 24, 2025

Alia Bhatt remembered her Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani co-star Dharmendra. Taking to her Instagram handle, she wrote, "A legend who lit up every frame and every heart. You will be missed, Dharam Ji."

After Dharmendra's death today, his last video message on Instagram went viral. In the clip, he says, "Tamaam bhai behno ko, bachche bachiyon ko, Dusshera ki shubhkamnaye. Bhagwan aapko lambi sehat de, khushiyan de, aur ab aap naye ban ke rahe, tab toh tarraki hi tarraki hai. (To all brothers and sisters, boys and girls, best wishes for Dussehra. May God bless you with long life, happiness, and may you always stay renewed and refreshed so that success keeps coming your way.)" Read the full story here. 

Preity Zinta looked visibly emotional as she arrived at Dharmendra's house to pay her final respects.

Shatrughan Sinha was deeply saddened on hearing about Dharmendra's death. 

He wrote on X, "Heart broken, pained & deeply saddened by the passing away of our dearest family friend, our elder brother, people's hero, @aapkadharm Most loved, son of the soil, pride of Punjab /Maharashtra a  'Bharat Ratna" in true sense, down to earth, kind & a humble human being. He will be remembered forever for his great  contributions to the film industry/  cinema.  A personality in totality an era of  'He Man/Star' has gone. My first 'Hero' & People's Hero' in the film industry is no more. It is an irreparable & irreplaceable loss to all of us & the entire film industry. Strength to the family, friends, well wishers & fans in these traumatic times."

Heart broken, pained & deeply saddened by the passing away of our dearest family friend, our elder brother, people's hero, @aapkadharm Most loved, son of the soil, pride of Punjab /Maharashtra a 'Bharat Ratna" in true sense, down to earth, kind & a
humble human being. He will… pic.twitter.com/MKvkoVFFhd

— Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) November 24, 2025

Remembering Dharmendra, Kamal Haasan wrote on X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and legendary actor Dharmendra ji. Dharam Ji’s charm, humility and strength of spirit were as real off-screen as on it. Indian cinema has lost one of its kindest icons. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers."

Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and legendary actor Dharmendra ji. Dharam Ji’s charm, humility and strength of spirit were as real off-screen as on it. Indian cinema has lost one of its kindest icons. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers. pic.twitter.com/I9CgBmlCzl

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) November 24, 2025

Taking to her Instagram handle, Anushka wrote, "Deeply saddened by Dharamji's passing, a legendary icon whose warmth, talent, and grace shaped Indian cinema. His legacy will live on in our hearts. Om Shanti."

Zeenat Aman remembered Dharmendra with deep affection as she shared a heartfelt note and throwback photos on Instagram. Calling him "a jewel from the Hindi film industry," she reflected on how privileged she felt to have collaborated with him across multiple films. 

She added, "Dharam ji was always amongst my favourite co-stars, and I am blessed to have worked alongside him in a number of movies. For an introverted personality such as myself, his down to earth demeanour and natural kindness were a warm comfort on set. At times when the pressure, glitz and glam felt horribly garish, there he was with no pretences or guile. A sweet reminder that life is about the real things not the fluff. My heartfelt condolences to his family, may it be of some solace that his legacy is cherished by millions of Indians around the world."

Taking to X, Chiranjeevi wrote, "Sri Dharmji was not only a legendary actor but also a remarkable human being. The humility and warmth I experienced every time I met him deeply touched my heart. I will forever cherish the fond memories and personal moments I shared with him. My heartfelt condolences on his passing. May his noble soul rest in eternal peace. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially my dear friends Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions."

Sri Dharmji was not only a legendary actor but also a remarkable human being. The humility and warmth I experienced every time I met him deeply touched my heart. I will forever cherish the fond memories and personal moments I shared with him.
My heartfelt condolences on his… pic.twitter.com/vuHMWyG34X

— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) November 24, 2025

In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, singer Usha Uthup fondly remembered Dharmendra and sang the song One Two Cha Cha Cha from the 1978 film Shalimar.

#NDTVExclusive | "We are so devastated and grieved": Singer Usha Uthup (@singerushauthup) to NDTV's @Vasudha156 and @tmvraghav#DharmendraDeol pic.twitter.com/WRz5XpLi9V

— NDTV (@ndtv) November 24, 2025

Taking to his X handle, Mammootty penned a heartfelt note that read, "A true icon has left us. Dharam ji’s legacy will continue to inspire every generation. Heartfelt condolences and prayers."

Actors Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Govinda, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, among others, were seen arriving at the cremation ground to offer condolences to the Deol family. Read the full story here.

Veteran actor Dalip Tahil paid a deeply emotional tribute to Dharmendra following the legendary star’s death at the age of 89. Speaking to NDTV, Tahil shared vivid memories of the first time he saw Dharmendra as a teenager.

Offering his condolences, Tahil said, "My condolences go to the entire family - to Sunny, Bobby, Prakash ji, Hema ji and all the children. I don’t quite agree with you that Dharmendra was anything less than a superb and very versatile actor."

Tahil went on to speak with admiration about Dharmendra’s range as an actor, praising films such as Satyakam, Phool Aur Patthar, Aadmi Aur Insaan and Sholay. But what struck him most, he said, was a rare, often overlooked quality: Dharmendra’s innate honesty.

"There was a rare quality about Dharam ji that people underestimate because he never publicised himself too much, and that was his honesty," he said. "In his performances, it is very rare for actors to have this intrinsic honesty in them. Everything he did on screen was believable because he was so involved in it and so innocently honest. That is what makes Dharam ji so different from any other leading man in cinema."

Tahil added that Dharmendra’s versatility placed him among the greatest screen icons of all time. "I rank him amongst cinema’s greatest leading men in the world. He had a charisma that sustained itself over years and years of competition. He did a variety of roles and was never given the kind of credibility he truly deserved."

Visuals from Government Senior Secondary School in Sahnewal highlight the humble beginnings of veteran actor Dharmendra. This school in Ludhiana district, Punjab, played a significant role in shaping his early life and personality. Dharmendra spent his formative years here.

#WATCH | Ludhiana, Punjab: Visuals from Government Senior Secondary School Sahnewal, where veteran actor Dharmendra studied.
Veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Dharmendra passed away today at the age of 89 pic.twitter.com/D8cYp5wdFe

— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2025

The state-run Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) on Monday cancelled all on-stage programmes of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) for a day following Dharmendra's death.

Dharmendra died at the age of 89 on Monday morning. The actor made his debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and went on to feature in films such as Satyakam and Sholay.

In a statement, the ESG said that film screenings would continue as part of the festival, but all on-stage events had been cancelled for the day.

“In light of the sad demise of legendary actor Shri Dharmendra, all entertainment programmes scheduled for today stand cancelled,” Sharmad Pai Raiturcar, a Governing Body member of the ESG, told PTI.

Several celebrities arrived at Juhu Crematorium to pay their final respects to Dharmendra. Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Govinda were among the many who came to the crematorium grounds to bid farewell to the legendary actor.

Remembering Dharmendra, Sachin Tendulkar penned an emotional note on X. He 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," he concluded.

Kajol was seen arriving at Dharmendra's residence to offer her condolences and pay her final respects.

When Garam Dharam Dhaba first opened its doors in Murthal, Haryana, on February 23, 2018, it was more than just another restaurant launch. It was Dharmendra's way of celebrating food. Read the full story here. 

Allu Arjun expressed sorrow over the death of Dharmendra. Taking to his X handle, he wrote, "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Legendary actor #Dharmendra ji. A legend who touched millions of hearts . My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans."

Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Legendary actor #Dharmendra ji. A legend who touched millions of hearts . My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans . pic.twitter.com/LouzDyy0rv

— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) November 24, 2025

Rajinikanth, who shared screen space with Dharmendra in the 1987 action film Insaaf Kaun Karega, wrote on X, "Farewell, my friend. I will always remember your golden heart and the moments we shared. Rest in peace, Dharam ji. My deepest condolences to his family."

Taking to his X handle, Mahesh Babu wrote, "Cinema has lost one of its strongest voices today… Rest in peace Dharmendra Deol Sir. The honesty and weight you brought to every character across generations and eras will continue to inspire us always….Praying for strength and courage to his family during this difficult time…"

Priyanka Chopra paid a heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra, recalling how the legendary actor and his family were among the first to welcome her into the Hindi film industry. 

Taking to her Instagram handle, she wrote, "In the year 2001, my first signing amount in the movies came from Vijayta Films. One of the first Hindi movies I ever shot was under his banner, with his eldest son. Him and his family, made me feel welcome in the industry, at a time when no one knew me. Very few people are capable of that kind of warmth and grace, towards a complete newcomer, who didn’t know anyone in Mumbai."

"I have known the Deol family since the beginning of my career. I’ve worked in multiple movies with Sunny and Bobby. This feels personal, and I know I share that feeling with many others in the world. Some people leave behind films, some leave behind feelings. He has left us with both. His presence was magnetic. He filled up a frame with his smile and charisma like only he could. This is a big loss for cinema, but his legacy is permanent. As I type this note on a film set, in between shots, I think about how so many of us will always be inspired by him. He had a dream and made it come true.. and carried his family along. A true blue Hindi film Hero. Rest in paradise, Dharamji. My condolences to the entire Deol family," she concluded.

Actor Rashmika Mandanna shared a tribute for Dharmendra on her Instagram Story.

"A legend has left us. Rest easy Dharmendra sir," she captioned a black-and-white photograph of Dharmendra on Instagram.

Sharmila Tagore, speaking to NDTV’s Vishnu Som, fondly recalled shooting the iconic Chhalka Yeh Jaam song from Mere Hamdam Mere Dost. 

“We shot till 10 o’clock but couldn’t finish the song, so we had to continue the next day. I was supposed to attend a Test match - the West Indies were playing - and I was scheduled to leave for Kolkata. I requested him to extend the shoot, and not only did he agree, he was incredibly generous. We shot till 7 o’clock in the morning, and then I rushed to the airport. I can’t think of any other hero who would have cooperated like that," she said.

Gautam Adani wrote on X, "The light of Indian cinema dims today and so does a part of my childhood. We will miss Dharmendra ji in this world, but his radiance on screen will remain eternal. जब भी दोस्ती के फ़साने कहे जाएँगे, ‘ये दोस्ती हम नहीं तोड़ेंगे’ जरूर याद आएगा। धरम पाजी, आपको विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि।"

Remembering Dharmendra and his legacy, Anil Kapoor wrote on X, "Dharam ji was hard to capture in one sentence...Hero, Father, the OG Punjabi, a man who was as keenly emotional as he was mischievous, larger than life but also relatably human..."

Dharmendra’s posts on X this year were not about glamour or nostalgia linked to his films, but rather focused on his family. Read the full story here.

Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol were seen departing the crematorium in their car after paying their final respects to their father, Dharmendra. 

Veteran actor Dharmendra left behind not only a celebrated legacy but also one of Bollywood's most esteemed and expansive film families. Known as the "He-Man" of Hindi cinema, his family spans multiple generations of actors, filmmakers, and industry professionals, all carrying forward parts of his enduring legacy. Read the full story here.

Vice President of India, CP Radhakrishnan, stated that Dharmendra was a cherished icon for millions who enriched Indian cinema. 

He wrote on X, "The demise of former Member of Parliament and veteran actor Shri Dharmendra Ji is an irreparable loss to Indian cinema. A cherished icon for millions, he enriched the canvas  of Indian cinema through his remarkable performances and steadfast dedication to his art. As one of the most admired figures in our film industry, he leaves behind a timeless legacy that will continue to inspire generations of artistes. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and innumerable admirers. Om Shanti."

Actor Sanjay Dutt remembers Dharmendra, an actor who "not just worked, but lived in your heart". 

On X, Dutt 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..."

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… pic.twitter.com/xXzpyuZlm3

— Sanjay Dutt (@duttsanjay) November 24, 2025

Javed Akhtar remembered Dharmendra as he spoke to NDTV. He said, "We are shocked, the whole film industry is shocked. With Dharmendra’s death, an era has come to an end. He was one of those giants. I feel very fortunate that when I came to Bombay, I was a clapper boy. I was 20-21 and he was at the pinnacle of his career. When you are a nobody, nobody behaves nicely, but Dharmendra was so nice and he was very warm with me. He was different from other people."

Taking to his X handle, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, wrote, "Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Seeta aur Geeta, The Burning Train, Yaadon ki Baaraat, #Dharmendra Sb was such a big part of my childhood Hindi movie experience. He leaves behind an unmatched legacy of hit movies & breathtaking performances. Rest in peace sir."

Dharmendra died on Monday (November 24) at the age of 89. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Smriti Irani said, "He was truly a son of the soil. He will always be remembered not only for his craft and humility but also for the lasting impression he left on everyone he met. His legacy - both in his journey and his art - is immense. He was the kind of man who made Chupke Chupke stand out."

"Films like Chupke Chupke, Guddi, and Sholay will always remind me of his brilliance. My condolences to all his family members. I had the privilege of working not only with Hema ji but also with his son, Sunny. He was not just a legend by name, words, or reputation; he was genuinely a good human being. Whether one was a star or not, he left an impression on everyone. It's a huge loss," she concluded.

Smriti Irani expressed that some artists transcend mere performance to become an icon. She wrote on X, "Some artists don’t just perform, they become a nation’s shared memory. An entire generation learnt the meaning of grace by watching Dharmendra Ji on screen. Yet what truly defined him was the dignity with which he carried his fame. On screen, he brought power, humour, and emotion.. off screen, it was his humility that stayed with those who met him or admired him from afar."

The former Cabinet Minister further added, "His passing feels like the lights dimming on an era we all cherished. My thoughts are with his family and everyone who held him close in their hearts. Om Shanti."

Dharmendra will be last seen in Ikkis, releasing on Christmas, December 25, 2025. The film stars Dharmendra as ML Khetarpal and Agastya Nanda as Arun Khetarpal, depicting the life of India's youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient and his sacrifice in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Read the full story here.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee mourned the untimely death of veteran actor Dharmendra. She wrote on X, "Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary actor-hero Dharmendra ji today in Mumbai. His immense contribution to Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations."

She further added, "My heartfelt condolences to his family, fraternity, fans and followers. Hema Malini ji, his sons and daughters will carry his rich legacy now. May his soul rest in peace."

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, in an X post, said she is heartbroken after learning about Dharmendra's death.

"The news of the demise of the renowned actor and former parliamentarian Shri Dharmendra Ji is extremely heartbreaking. Indian cinema has today lost one of its immortal identities, a simple personality, and an artist beloved by generations.

प्रसिद्ध अभिनेता, पूर्व सांसद श्री धर्मेंद्र जी के निधन का समाचार अत्यंत दुखद है। भारतीय सिनेमा ने आज अपनी एक अमर पहचान, एक सादगीभरा व्यक्तित्व और पीढ़ियों के प्रिय कलाकार को खो दिया है।
उनका योगदान केवल अभिनय तक सीमित नहीं था, उन्होंने भारतीय समाज की भावनाओं, संघर्षों और… pic.twitter.com/pKxaftQs0d

— Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) November 24, 2025

His contribution was not limited to acting alone; he brought to life the emotions, struggles, and sensitivities of Indian society on the screen. May God grant peace to the departed soul and give strength to his family and fans to bear this sorrow. Om Shanti," she wrote.

"I have extremely fond memories of Dharmendra ji. He was my neighbour. When I used to visit his place, he treated me really well. He used to love my music. Dharmendra ji is known for his nature. It's sad that he is no more with us," Kher told NDTV.

Political leaders across party lines on Monday paid rich tributes to Dharmendra, who died earlier in the day at his Juhu home in Mumbai. Read the full story here.

Besides his stories filmography, Dharmendra's personal life was also a matter of great interest for his fans and audiences. His marriages with Prakash Raj and Hema Malini remained a subject of public curiosity and media attention for decades. For an insight into Dharmendra's two marriages, read the story here. 

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena supremo Raj Thackeray posted an emotional tribute for veteran actor Dharmendra on social media.

Raj Thackeray wrote in Marathi on X, "Dharmendraji has died. In Indian cinema, when one speaks of a 'superstar,' there is a period of whirlwind success, and there is also a period of fading away. But Dharmendraji is an exception to this. He gave one blockbuster film after another, yet the title of superstar didn't stick to him, or rather, he didn't let it stick. It feels more like he didn't let it stick, because in Dharmendraji's case, his real self was even more intense than his image.

"In the 1960s decade, a young man with a handsome appearance, an extremely robust physique, a charming smile, a personality where masculinity was naturally felt yet without any trace of bravado, appeared on the screen, and for the next several decades, he dominated the Hindi film industry.

"How many get the fortune of working with a director like Bimal Roy right at the start of their career? Later, directors like Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Chetan Anand, Ramesh Sippy, Raj Khosla, Manmohan Desai, and many others felt that Dharmendra should be their hero--this itself reveals the immense talent within Dharmendraji. And in the highly complicated world of cinema, he was a straightforward man, and that's why he always remained the common man's hero.

"The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena's humble tribute to his memories," wrote Thackeray in a heartfelt tribute for Dharmendra.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called Dharmendra's death "an irreparable loss" to Indian cinema.

लोकप्रिय फिल्म अभिनेता श्री धर्मेंद्र जी का निधन अत्यंत दुःखद एवं कला व फिल्म जगत की अपूरणीय क्षति है। उन्हें विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि!
प्रभु श्री राम से प्रार्थना है कि दिवंगत आत्मा को सद्गति तथा शोकाकुल परिजनों एवं उनके प्रशंसकों को यह अथाह दुःख सहन करने की शक्ति प्रदान करें।
ॐ…

— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) November 24, 2025

"Popular film actor Shri Dharmendra Ji's death is extremely tragic and an irreparable loss to the world of art and cinema. Humble tribute to him! I pray to Lord Shri Ram that the departed soul attains eternal peace and grants strength to the grieving family and his fans to bear this immense sorrow. Om Shanti!" the UP CM wrote in an X post.

Actor Manoj Bajpayee posted a heartfelt tribute for Dharmendra, one of his "favourite childhood heroes". Bajpayee wrote, "Dharam ji was my parents favourite and one of my childhood heroes. He had a warmth you felt even before he spoke. His dignity, his humour, and the way he carried himself on and off screen left a deep mark on everyone who met him or watched him. Losing him feels personal. His films, his love for people, and the gentle strength he stood for will stay with us. Om Shanti."

Dharam ji was my parents favourite and one of my childhood heroes. He had a warmth you felt even before he spoke. His dignity, his humour, and the way he carried himself on and off screen left a deep mark on everyone who met him or watched him. Losing him feels personal. His… pic.twitter.com/MH62im639x

— manoj bajpayee (@BajpayeeManoj) November 24, 2025

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he was "deeply anguished" by the news of Dharmendra's death. 

Deeply anguished by the demise of legendary Hindi film actor and former MP Shri Dharmendra ji. He brought life to many memorable characters with his unmatched charm and sincerity. His remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to…

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 24, 2025

"He brought life to many memorable characters with his unmatched charm and sincerity. His remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and countless admirers," the defence minister said.

Dharmendra, who died on Monday morning, according to news agency IANS, at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89, was more than a film icon. The veteran actor, whose final cinematic apperance will be the upcoming war drama Ikkis, was also an astute businessman whose estimated net worth is Rs 335 crore. Read the full story here. 

Actor Jaya Prada said she met Dharmendra "a few months ago". "Today, it's a very sad day. It's a very sad day for the entertainment industry. It's a great loss. A few months back, I met him. He was so joyful," she told NDTV. Read the full story here.

Dharmendra's last post was a touching black-and-white picture of himself with his second wife Hema Malini. 

The actor couple married in 1980 and share daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. Read more.

President Droupadi Murmu shared a condolence message mourning Dharmendra's death, saying his death was "a great loss to Indian cinema".

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…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 24, 2025

"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," the president wrote on X.

Singer-actor Salma Agha told NDTV that Dharmendra will "forever be with us".

"He was a person like a dream, too good for a person for all of us. Someone who will always live in our hearts. He was the best. His goodness was his highlight. It always reflected onscreen and offscreen. He can never leave us. He will be forever with us," she said. Read the full story here.

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone reach Pawan Hans crematorium to pay last respects to Dharmendra. The veteran actor died earlier today. His cremation took place at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai this afternoon.

As the news of Dharmendra's death started doing the rounds on the Internet, several Bollywood celebs, including Karan Johar, Kajol, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Manish Malhotra, shared memorable tributes remembering the late actor on social media. Read the full story here.

Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan and Salman Khan leave the Pawan Hans crematorium after Dharmendra's last rites. The veteran actor was cremated amid tight security, in the presence of his family and several industry colleagues.

Veteran actor Saira Banu, in an exclusive interview with NDTV, said she will always remember Dharmendra fondly.

"Dharmendra's death is impossible to process. Dilip Sahab (Dilip Kumar) considered him his younger brother. He would often come to my house to chat, eat and sometimes drink with Dilip Sahab. I'm too upset to talk about this. I will always remember him," Saira Banu said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a glowing tribute to Dharmendra in an X post.

"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," the Prime Minister wrote.

Dharmendra consigned to flames (mukhagni). The veteran actor's last rites took place at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai this afternoon, amid heavy security and several Bollywood actors in attendance.

Moushumi Chatterjee told NDTV that she never considered Dharmendra a He-Man.

"He was not a He-Man, he was a very soft-hearted man. He was a family-oriented man. He was a big man and will remain one. He had a great sense of humour," she said.

Sharmila Tagore told NDTV that she was constantly in touch with Dharmendra's family.

"I was almost daily on the phone with them. I knew he was critical, I really really wished he would make through," she said.

Sharmila Tagore, who worked with Dharmendra in 1975's Chupke Chupke, remembered him as a "patriarch".

"Everyone called him papaji. He was a proper patriarch. He looked after everybody. He was a person you go to," she added.

Filmmaker Karan Johar was one of the first celebrities to share a condolence message on social media. The director, who worked with Dharmendra in 2023's Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, said his death marks the end of an era. 

 "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 …." 

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan are the latest film celebrities to reach the Pawan Hans Crematorium, where Dharmendra's last rites will be performed. The actor had previously visited the legendary actor when he was admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital.

Several film celebrities, including Dharmendra's second wife Hema Malini, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Agastya Nanda, Salim Khan, Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt, and Rajkumar Santoshi, have arrived at the Pawan Hans Crematorium for the veteran actor's last rites.

Veteran actor Dharmendra died on November 24 at the age of 89 at his Mumbai home, according to news agency IANS.