Dharmendra’s final curtain call: Bollywood Titans Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, Mumtaz pour their hearts out

Bollywood is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of Dharmendra, the legendary actor who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. He was just weeks away from his 90th birthday on December 8.

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The actor had recently been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital due to breathlessness and was discharged on November 12 to recover at home. His passing has left the industry, his family, and millions of fans in deep sorrow.

Amitabh Bachchan Writes a Poetic Farewell

Amitabh Bachchan offered a deeply moving tribute, reflecting on Dharmendra’s goodness and unchanging nature. He wrote, "... another valiant Giant has left us .. left the arena .. leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound ...Dharam ji .. (folded hands emojis)"

Praising his humility and magnetic charm, Amitabh added, ".. 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 .. un soiled throughout his glorious career , in a fraternity that witnessed changes every decade ..... the fraternity underwent changes .. not him ..his smile, his charm and his warmth , extending to all that came in his vicinity .. a rarity in the profession .... the air about us swings vacant .."

He concluded with profound grief: ".. a vacuum that shall ever remain vacuus .... prayers."

Shatrughan Sinha’s Emotional Tribute

Shatrughan Sinha shared a deeply personal message, expressing the loss of someone he cherished beyond the screen. He wrote, "Deeply grief-stricken by the sad demise of our beloved dearest family friend, our elder brother @aapkadharam Fortunately beautiful memories to cherish as we did several films together. A true legend, an immensely good & kind soul. Heartfelt condolences & strenght to @dreamgirlhema, the family, friends, well wishers & fans in these difficult times. Om Shanti"

Raj Babbar Remembers a Mentor and Brother

Raj Babbar honoured Dharmendra as a guiding force- someone whose warmth shaped countless lives. He wrote, "Such was Dharmendra ji that his films themselves helped shape Indian cinema. He touched millions of hearts and through his work, the magic of cinema reached even the smallest towns and villages of India. As he embarks on his eternal journey, memories of days spent with him come flooding back — his warmth, his simplicity, and his generosity."

He added, "He was a great actor because he was a great human being, one who seamlessly transcended the lines between reel and real life, and found a permanent place in the hearts of countless Indians.His passing is a deep personal loss. My elder brother is gone. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come."

Mumtaz Revisits Their Cherished Moments

Mumtaz, remembering their 1973 film Loafer, posted stills from the movie and shared a heartfelt tribute. She wrote, “Dharam Ji, you were and you are always with us! May you rest in peace.”

Her message captured the tenderness and respect Dharmendra inspired in everyone who worked with him.

Sharmila Tagore’s Heartfelt Tribute

Sharmila Tagore, who shared a warm bond and several films with Dharmendra, remembered him with deep affection. She said he was “a rare man whose goodness shaped every space he entered” and recalled how, during shoots, “we knew if we were with Dharam, we were safe.”

She described him as humble, honest and unfailingly kind - a star who never behaved like one.

Sharmila added that she had hoped he would recover in time for his birthday, saying, “We wanted him to celebrate his birthday,” a wish that now remains an aching memory.

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An Irreplaceable Legacy

Through decades of cinema, Dharmendra remained a symbol of charisma, humility and humanity. His contribution goes far beyond his films- he shaped emotions, memories and generations. 

The void he leaves behind is immense, but so is the legacy he has etched forever in Indian cinema.