Veteran actor-politician Hema Malini paid an emotional tribute to her late husband Dharmendra, saying that he was “everything” to her — a partner, guide and friend whose passing has left an irreplaceable void. In her first post since Dharmendra’s death on Monday at the age of 89, Malini remembered him as a loving husband and an adoring father to their daughters, Esha and Ahana, as well as a warm presence who effortlessly endeared himself to everyone in her family.
“Dharam ji. He was many things to me. Loving Husband, adoring Father of our two girls, Esha & Ahaana, Friend, Philosopher, Guide, Poet, my ‘go to’ person in all times of need — in fact, he was everything to me! And always has been through good times and bad. “He endeared himself to all my family members with his easy, friendly ways, always showing affection and interest in all of them,” the 77-year-old wrote while also sharing their old photos.
Calling her loss “indescribable”, the actor said the vacuum left behind will remain for the rest of her life.
“After years of togetherness, I am left with myriad memories to relive the many special moments…” Malini, who acted with Dharmendra in many blockbusters such as “Sholay”, Seeta aur Geeta” and “Pratigya”, said.
Amitabh Bachchan calls Dharmendra a valiant giant in emotional tribute
Longtime co-star and friend Amitabh Bachchan, who later shared an emotional note remembering the actor.
On his personal blog, Bachchan wrote an emotional tribute, describing Dharmendra as “a valiant Giant” whose absence has created an irreplaceable void. “Another valiant Giant has left us left the arena leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound,” he wrote. Recalling the qualities that made Dharmendra beloved both on and off-screen, Bachchan added, “Dharam ji 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 reflected on how Dharmendra remained grounded despite decades of fame. “He brought with him the earthiness of the village in Punjab he came from, and remained true to its temperament, unsoiled throughout his glorious career, in a fraternity that witnessed changes every decade. The fraternity underwent changes not him.”
Bachchan also remembered Dharmendra’s warmth and generosity. “His smile, his charm and his warmth, extending to all that came in his vicinity a rarity in the profession,” he added.
Ending his tribute with a sense of profound loss, Bachchan wrote, “The air about us swings vacant a vacuum that shall ever remain vacuus prayers.”
Bachchan and Dharmendra shared an enduring bond, made immortal by their iconic roles in ‘Sholay’, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films. Dharmendra’s death marks the end of an era, and tributes continue to pour in from across the film industry and fans worldwide.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Dharmendra saying that his death marked the end of an era in Indian cinema. “He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people,” Modi said on X.
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