The Indian film industry is grieving the loss of veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away on Monday, November 24, at the age of 89. As heartfelt tributes continue to pour in from across the nation, his longtime friend and fellow actor Shatrughan Sinha shared an emotional message honouring the legendary star.
Sinha posted a series of nostalgic photographs on X, showcasing moments from their long association—stills from their films together, snapshots from award ceremonies, and several rare, unseen images. In his tribute, he wrote, “Heartbroken, pained and deeply saddened by the passing away of our dearest family friend, our elder brother, people’s hero, @aapkadharm.” He went on to describe Dharmendra as “the most loved son of the soil, the pride of Punjab and Maharashtra, a Bharat Ratna in the truest sense—down-to-earth, kind and humble. He will be remembered forever for his immense contributions to Indian cinema.”
Reflecting on his personal bond with the late actor, Sinha added, “A personality in totality, an era of a true ‘He-Man’ and superstar has ended. My first hero and the people’s hero is no more. It is an irreparable and irreplaceable loss to us and the entire industry. Strength to the family, friends, well-wishers and fans in these traumatic times. Om Shanti.”
Heart broken, pained & deeply saddened by the passing away of our dearest family friend, our elder brother, people's hero, @aapkadharm Most loved, son of the soil, pride of Punjab /Maharashtra a 'Bharat Ratna" in true sense, down to earth, kind & a
— Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) November 24, 2025
humble human being. He will… pic.twitter.com/MKvkoVFFhd
Dharmendra and Shatrughan Sinha shared a warm friendship and collaborated on several films over the years, including Aag Hi Aag, Zalzala, Hum Se Na Takrana, Blackmail, and Laha. Sinha revealed that he had recently visited Dharmendra, who appeared cheerful despite his illness. “He looked handsome and radiant even when unwell. We thought he would recover,” Sinha said, recalling his hope that the actor’s condition would improve.
Also Read: Alia Bhatt’s Emotional Note for Dharmendra Will Give You Goosebumps
Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai due to health complications. Though discharged, reports suggested he was later placed on a ventilator after experiencing breathing difficulties. Despite signs of improvement, the iconic actor passed away on November 24. His final appearance will be in the upcoming film Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, scheduled for release on December 25.
