Bollywood is mourning the loss of one of its greatest legends, Dharmendra, and among the many heartfelt tributes pouring in, Amitabh Bachchan’s message stands out for its raw emotion and deep affection.
The veteran actor took to social media to honour his dear friend and Sholay co-star, expressing profound grief at the loss of his “Veeru.”
Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars, passed away on November 24 at the age of 89 after a prolonged period of ill health. Earlier this month, he had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital following a decline in his condition. He was discharged two days later as the family chose to continue treatment at home.
Amitabh Bachchan shared a moving note, reflecting on Dharmendra’s towering presence—both on screen and off.
“Another valiant Giant has left us… left the arena… leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound,” he wrote. “Dharam ji… the epitome of greatness, ever linked not only for his renowned physical presence, but for the largeness of his heart, and its most endearing simplicity… he brought with him the earthiness of the village in Punjab he came from, and remained true to its temperament… unsoiled throughout his glorious career, in a fraternity that witnessed changes every decade… the fraternity underwent changes… not him.”
Bachchan also remembered Dharmendra’s unmistakable “smile, charm and warmth,” adding that his passing leaves “an empty void.”
On Monday, Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan visited Mumbai’s Pawan Hans crematorium to pay their respects. They were accompanied by Agastya Nanda, who appeared deeply affected as they stood with the grieving Deol family.
Amitabh and Dharmendra created one of the most iconic on-screen duos in Ramesh Sippy’s classic Sholay, immortalising the roles of Jai and Veeru. Their camaraderie continued off-screen over the decades, evolving into a lifelong friendship.
Several leading stars—including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Anil Kapoor, Zayed Khan, Govinda, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh—also attended the funeral to honour the legendary “He-Man” of Bollywood. Tributes continue to pour in from across India as fans and colleagues celebrate Dharmendra’s extraordinary cinematic legacy.
