The Indian film industry continues to mourn the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra, who died on Monday, November 24, at the age of 89. As condolences pour in from all corners of the country, Shah Rukh Khan shared a deeply heartfelt tribute on X, remembering the veteran star with immense affection, reverence, and gratitude.
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
Shah Rukh Khan, who was among the many celebrities who visited the Pawan Hans Crematorium to pay their final respects, took to social media to express the depth of his grief.
“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,” SRK wrote.
Stars gather to bid farewell
A large gathering of film colleagues and long-time friends united at the crematorium to honour Dharmendra. Among those present were Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Salim Khan, and several other prominent personalities who shared long-standing professional and personal relationships with the late actor.
Dharmendra’s health struggles in recent weeks
Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai in the days leading up to his death due to health complications. Although his condition initially improved enough for discharge, reports later confirmed that he had been placed on a ventilator after experiencing breathing difficulties.
In recent months, the actor had been living at his Khandala farmhouse with his first wife, Prakash Kaur, as he continued to battle age-related health issues.
A monumental legacy
One of Indian cinema’s most adored stars, Dharmendra leaves behind a career spanning over six decades and more than 300 films. Known widely as Bollywood’s original “He-Man,” his contribution to Indian cinema remains unmatched.
His final screen appearance will be in Ikkis, co-starring Agastya Nanda, slated for release on December 25.
Dharmendra is survived by his six children, including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol, and leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of film lovers.