Mumbai— Actress Hema Malini and her daughter Esha Deol were seen leaving the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle on Monday afternoon, their hands folded in a quiet gesture of gratitude and grief after the final rites of veteran actor Dharmendra.
The sombre visuals captured the deep personal loss felt by the family, as industry stalwarts gathered to bid farewell to one of Indian cinema’s most cherished icons.
Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, and several members of the film fraternity arrived at the crematorium to pay their last respects. Filmmaker Karan Johar also remembered the late actor in an emotional post on social media.
Dharmendra, 89, had recently been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai after experiencing breathing difficulties and was reportedly placed on a ventilator. Though he briefly showed signs of improvement and was discharged to recuperate at his Juhu home, he passed away on Monday morning.
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra rose to fame after winning a Filmfare–Bimal Roy talent hunt in 1958, a launchpad that would later also introduce superstar Rajesh Khanna. With striking looks, emotional depth, and effortless screen charisma, he quickly became one of the most versatile actors of his era.
His filmography remains one of Hindi cinema’s richest — from Phool Aur Patthar to the evergreen Sholay, where his portrayal of the lovable, spirited Veeru became an enduring cultural milestone. His range across romance, action, drama, and comedy set new benchmarks for generations of actors.
Dharmendra was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema.
His passing marks the end of an era — one remembered for warmth, charm, and an unparalleled connection with audiences across decades. (Source: IANS)
