Panjim (Goa): Actor Aamir Khan has shared an emotional recollection of meeting the late Dharmendra, calling the veteran actor’s death a “great loss” to Indian cinema. Speaking on the sidelines of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Aamir opened up about a personal moment involving his son Azad and the legendary star.
Aamir revealed that he would often visit Dharmendra, and during one such visit, he decided to take Azad along. “I used to go and sit with him. One day, I took Azad with me. I said, I want you to meet someone, because Azad has not really seen his work. We spent a couple of hours with him, and it was really wonderful,” Aamir said.
Remembering Dharmendra with deep admiration, Aamir described him as “not only such a fine actor, but a great human being.” He added, “He was so gentle… like a gentle giant. He was very loving. No matter who he met—whether a colleague or someone outside the industry—he was always warm and soft in his interactions.”
Aamir Khan on Dharmendra’s Passing
The Lagaan actor called Dharmendra an institution in himself. “Dharamji was an institution. His Satyakam still teaches us. He was a wonderful person, a great actor, and his passing is a great loss for all of us,” Aamir said.
He also praised Dharmendra’s impeccable command over language: “His Hindustani was so clean. It was amazing to hear him. Even at live events, the grace with which he spoke was admirable.” Aamir recalled the dignity Dharmendra displayed at Dilip Kumar’s book launch, saying it left a lasting impression on him.
Dharmendra’s Final Journey
Dharmendra, remembered fondly as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, marking the end of an era. His final rites were performed at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle.
Several prominent film personalities—including Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Govinda, Ranveer Singh, and Deepika Padukone—visited the cremation ground to offer their condolences to the Deol family.
To celebrate his life and legacy, the Deols held a prayer meet titled “Celebration of Life” on November 27 at Seaside Lawns, Taj Lands End, Bandra. Celebrities such as Aryan Khan, Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, and many others attended the gathering.
Aamir Khan on His Own Career’s ‘Iconic Moments’
During the IFFI fireside chat, Aamir was also asked about iconic milestones in his career. He responded that every film was an equally important journey, and it was the audience—not him—who decided what was “iconic.”
He spoke about growing up around narration sessions held for his producer father, often hiding behind curtains before being allowed to listen openly. That childhood exposure, he said, became an informal gurukul that shaped his script instincts.
Aamir emphasised that he has never chosen films based on strategy or comfort. Once he finishes a particular kind of film, he feels no excitement in repeating it. This instinct, he said, is what led him to unconventional choices like Lagaan, Sarfarosh, Dil Chahta Hai, Taare Zameen Par, and Ghajini—projects that were not considered commercially safe at the time but went on to redefine trends in Hindi cinema.
IFFI 2025 Timeline
The 56th International Film Festival of India, which began on November 20 in Goa, will conclude on Friday, November 28.