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What memories did Sunny Deol choose to reveal as he paid tribute to Dharmendra on his 90th birth anniversary, and how did the Deol family honour the legendary actor’s legacy through heartfelt stories that continue to shape their lives today?
Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89.
New Delhi: Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most iconic stars and lovingly known as Bollywood’s He Man, would have turned 90 on December 8. Instead of a grand celebration, the day became a moment of remembrance for the Deol family as they continue to process the loss of the legendary actor who passed away on November 24. His son Sunny Deol marked the day with an emotional social media post that captured both his grief and his enduring love for his father.
Dharmendra had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital in early November. After nearly ten days of treatment, he returned home, where he spent his final days with his family. His passing left the film industry and fans mourning the loss of an artist remembered for his effortless charm, powerful screen presence and extraordinary kindness.
Sunny Deol remembered his father by sharing a touching video from an old trip to a hill station. The clip showed Dharmendra enjoying a peaceful moment in nature, smiling gently and speaking with the simplicity that endeared him to millions.
Along with the video, Sunny wrote a heartfelt message in Hindi that translated to, “Today is my father’s birthday. My father is always with me, within me. Love you papa. Miss you.” In the comments, he added, “Miss you always,” expressing the depth of his loss.
The post resonated deeply with fans who witnessed a son honouring not just a superstar but a guiding force in his life.
Sunny Deol’s elder son, Karan Deol, also shared an emotional note addressed to his “Bade Papa.” Karan played an important role in the final rites of his grandfather, collecting Dharmendra’s ashes and immersing them in the Ganges in Varanasi.
In his heartfelt message, Karan reflected on how Dharmendra inspired him to be gentle, grounded and resilient. He wrote about the warmth of Dharmendra’s hugs, the silent reassurance he offered and the profound influence he had on shaping his personality. Karan expressed that there would never be another person like his grandfather and that he carries Dharmendra’s teachings within him every single day.
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Actor Abhay Deol paid tribute to his uncle Dharmendra by posting a nostalgic photograph from his childhood. He recalled being upset after being scolded, only for Dharmendra to comfort him by calling him close and asking him to look toward the light while a photo was taken. Abhay wrote that he looks forward to hearing those reassuring words again someday, a reflection of the deep affection he held for his uncle.
His message highlighted the gentle and compassionate side of Dharmendra, a side that his family cherished beyond his cinematic persona.
Dharmendra’s final film, titled Ikkis, is set to release on December 25 and will serve as a posthumous celebration of an actor who defined an era. His influence spans generations, and his absence leaves a void not only in his family but in the film fraternity and among fans who grew up watching him.
As the Deol family honoured Dharmendra on what would have been his milestone birthday, their messages revealed a man remembered not only as a legend but as a loving father, grandfather and mentor whose presence continues to live on in their hearts.