Don’t leave now…: Karan Johar’s tearful goodbye to Dharmendra
Karan Johar wrote an emotional tribute to Dharmendra. Remembered as a “bonafide legend” and the He-Man of Bollywood, the veteran star has left behind an irreplaceable legacy.
Filmmaker Karan Johar remembered Dharmendra in an emotional note on social media on Monday. The veteran actor passed away at his Mumbai home at the age of 89 after battling respiratory problems. In his heartwarming note, KJo remembered Bollywood’s He-Man as a “huge mega star” and a “true legend”.
He wrote, “It’s the end of an era.. A huge mega star, the embodiment of a hero in mainstream cinema, incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence he is and will always be an authentic legend of Indian cinema who will define and live richly in the pages of cinema history…”
The filmmaker, who directed the veteran star in his 2023 film ‘Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani’, reminisced about Dharmendra’s warm hugs and blessings.
She added, “…but mostly he was the nicest person, everyone in our industry loved him so much. He had so much love and positivity for everyone. His blessings, his hugs and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can express.”
Johar said, “There is a void in our industry today, which no one can fill, it will always be there and only Dharamji, we love you very much sir. We will miss you a lot. Heaven is blessed today. Working with you will always be my blessing. And my heart says with respect, reverence and love. Abhi na jao chhod ke. Ke dil abhi bhara nahi Om Shanti.”
Dharmendra was admitted to Breach Candy hospital earlier this month due to respiratory problems. He was discharged from the hospital on 12 November, after which he was kept under doctor’s supervision at his home.
Known as the He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra leaves behind a remarkable cinematic legacy spanning over six decades. His last appearance on screen will be in ‘Ikkis’, which will release on December 25.
Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and six children – actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, Ajita and Vijeta.
He will turn 90 on December 8.