Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, the visionary behind Sholay, delivered an emotional tribute to Dharmendra during the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). At the special session titled 50 Years of Sholay: Why Sholay Still Resonates, Sippy reflected on the irreplaceable presence Dharmendra had in Indian cinema and in his personal life. The session became a heartfelt remembrance of an icon whose warmth, talent and humanity shaped generations.
Dharmendra, lovingly known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” passed away earlier this week at the age of 89. His demise has left an unfillable void in cinema, sparking tributes across the country. For Sippy, whose collaboration with Dharmendra spanned decades, the loss feels deeply personal.
Dharmendra Legacy Lives On in Sholay and Beyond
During the session, an audience member asked Ramesh Sippy to share his thoughts on the legendary star. The director paused, visibly emotional, before saying:
“It is very difficult to talk about it… I think he was the most amazing man, one of the best men ever. No one else will fill that place. We may have other good actors, but there will never be another Dharmendra again.”
This quote encapsulates the essence of the Dharmendra legacy — a legacy built not only on iconic performances but also on genuine humanity. His role as Veeru in Sholay remains one of the most cherished roles in Bollywood history. Even 50 years later, the camaraderie, charm, and vulnerability he brought to the character continue to resonate with audiences.
To honor the film’s everlasting impact, a newly restored 4K version of Sholay is slated for theatrical release on December 12 — a fitting tribute during a moment of collective remembrance.
Ramesh Sippy Recalls Meeting Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol
Ramesh Sippy also shared that he recently met Dharmendra’s sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, while remembering their father.
He said:
“I recently corresponded and met Sunny and Bobby. I don’t know what to say except that we all join in wishing him well in his new home… wherever that may be.”
The director’s bond with Dharmendra naturally extended to his family, given their long-standing relationship. Sunny and Bobby, who continue to carry forward their family’s cinematic legacy, were deeply moved by the outpouring of love for their father.
The Dharmendra prayer meet that followed further showcased the deep respect he commanded across the film industry.
Dharmendra Prayer Meet Brings Bollywood Together
After a private cremation earlier in the week, the Deol family hosted a public prayer ceremony titled “Celebration of Life” at Taj Lands End, Bandra. The gathering allowed fans, friends, and colleagues to pay their final respects.
Held between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM on Thursday, the event included carefully organized seating, floral décor, and coordinated arrangements. Members of the fraternity came together, turning the evening into a heartfelt tribute to one of cinema’s most beloved stars.
Among the attendees were some of the biggest names in Bollywood — Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Shabana Azmi, Salim Khan, Sanjay Dutt and many others. Their presence reflected the magnitude of Dharmendra’s influence across multiple generations of artists.
The sight of Karan Deol, Dharmendra’s grandson, collecting the ashes from the crematorium earlier that day added to the emotional intensity of the moment.
Dharmendra Demise and the End of an Era
Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cinema. Fondly called the “He-Man” for his rugged looks and action roles, he went far beyond the stereotype throughout his career.
From intense dramas like Bandini to romantic classics like Satyakam, from action blockbusters like Sholay to family entertainers like Chupke Chupke, Dharmendra demonstrated unparalleled versatility.
But what truly made him a legend was his humility. Whether on sets or in public appearances, he remained approachable, soft-spoken, and graceful.
For many, the Dharmendra demise is not merely the loss of an actor — it is the loss of the very warmth and charm that defined an era of Bollywood.
Ramesh Sippy and Dharmendra: A Bond Beyond Cinema
During the IFFI session, Ramesh Sippy spoke about his long and cherished association with Dharmendra. Their collaboration began before Sholay and only strengthened over the years.
Sippy described him not just as a great actor but as an extraordinary human being — sincere, disciplined, and radiating kindness.
He emphasized:
“He was amazing both as a human being and as an actor.”
It is this emotional honesty — both in real life and onscreen — that made Dharmendra irreplaceable.
Sholay: The Film That Cemented Dharmendra’s Stardom
For many, Sholay remains the ultimate Bollywood classic. Dharmendra’s portrayal of Veeru — the mischievous yet warm-hearted lover and loyal friend — continues to be celebrated even today.
With the 4K restored version set for release, a new generation will get to experience the brilliance of Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, and the iconic direction of Ramesh Sippy.
The re-release now carries a deeper emotional meaning as fans get one more chance to relive Dharmendra’s magic.
Ramesh Sippy’s tribute not only honored Dharmendra but also highlighted why stars like him remain immortal.
His charm, sincerity, and unmatched artistry have left an imprint on Indian cinema that time cannot erase.
As Sippy said, “There will never be another Dharmendra again.”
And truly, legends like him are born once in a lifetime.
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