PM Modi Leads Nation In Mourning Dharmendra’s Passing At 89

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday conveyed heartfelt condolences following the death of celebrated Bollywood actor Dharmendra, calling his demise ‘the end of an era in Indian cinema’.

In a statement shared on X, the Prime Minister praised the late actor for the remarkable versatility and emotion he brought to the screen.

He noted that Dharmendra’s performances resonated deeply with audiences across generations, adding that the actor’s warmth, humility and down-to-earth nature earned him admiration beyond the film industry. The Prime Minister extended his sympathies to the star’s family, friends and vast fanbase.

Shortly after news broke of Dharmendra’s passing, leading names from the film industry arrived at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai to pay their last respects.

Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan were among the first to reach the venue, navigating through heavy police security.

Actors Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Zayed Khan and producer Siddharth Roy Kapur also attended the cremation, joining the family during the sombre final rites. Dharmendra, aged 89, breathed his last on Monday after a period of ill health.

Health Struggles in Recent Weeks

The veteran actor had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai after experiencing severe breathing difficulties.

Though he was briefly discharged following signs of improvement, his condition reportedly deteriorated, and he was placed on ventilator support. Dharmendra spent his later years at his farmhouse in Khandala with his first wife, Prakash Kaur.

His death marks yet another loss for Hindi cinema, following the recent passing of actors Pankaj Dheer, Asrani, Satish Shah and advertising pioneer Piyush Pandey. The series of high-profile deaths has cast a shadow over the industry.

Born in Punjab in 1935, Dharmendra entered the film industry through a nationwide talent hunt conducted by Filmfare magazine and Bimal Roy Productions in 1958. His striking presence and natural charisma earned him the winning title, opening the door to a prolific acting career.

He rose swiftly to stardom during the 1960s, delivering memorable performances marked by emotional nuance and lasting charm.

The same talent contest would later introduce Rajesh Khanna, another titan of Hindi cinema. Dharmendra’s enduring screen presence cemented him as one of Bollywood’s most cherished and iconic figures.

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