Pakistani Stars Express Sorrow Over The Passing Of The Bollywood Legend

The veteran performer’s death has sparked a wave of sorrow within Pakistan’s entertainment industry, a testament to the profound admiration he garnered beyond national boundaries.

From the moment news of Dharmendra’s demise emerged, Pakistani stars shared personal memories and reflections on how the actor shaped their craft and left an indelible mark on global cinema.

Actress Reema Khan, who crossed paths with the legend in 2004, posted a snapshot with him on Instagram, penning: “Cinema has lost its pulse, but Dharmendra’s glow will never fade.”

Her message resonated deeply with fans, many of whom recalled his iconic roles in classic films that were beloved staples in Pakistani households.

Acclaimed musician Rahat Fateh Ali Khan paid homage by sharing a photo with Dharmendra, reminiscing about the actor’s universal appeal. “His journey, his art, and his timeless elegance touched millions of hearts worldwide,” Rahat wrote. “A true legend never perishes—he lives on through his legacy.”

Actress Mahira Khan honored Dharmendra by sharing clips from his films on her Instagram Stories, recognizing the enduring impact of his performances.

Meanwhile, actor Adnan Siddiqui lauded Dharmendra’s effortless acting and magnetic charisma, noting: “He made acting seem seamless, as if he was born for the silver screen. That rare blend of gentleness, those iconic looks, and the spark in his eyes were unparalleled. He wasn’t just a superstar—he was soul, style, and sincerity all rolled into one.”

TV host Anoushey Ashraf reflected on the era that catapulted Dharmendra to fame, highlighting how his generation championed love, kindness, and human connection both on and off-screen.

She added that Dharmendra held a special place in Pakistan, referencing a viral clip where he affectionately called the country his “mausi maa [mother’s sister]” and voiced hope for improved India-Pakistan relations.

“Dharmendra always acknowledged his fans across borders,” Ashraf said. “He believed in cinema’s power to unite people, which is why his loss is felt so deeply here in Pakistan.”

Social media platforms erupted with activity as fans shared old clips, photographs, and personal anecdotes, underscoring the cross-border reverence for the actor who became a symbol of timeless charm.

While Pakistani celebrities led the tributes, India’s film fraternity also mourned the loss of Dharmendra Deol, who passed away on Monday in Mumbai at the age of 89. The actor had been hospitalized earlier this month due to respiratory complications and succumbed despite medical intervention.

Earlier rumors about his declining health surfaced on November 10, but his family dismissed them after a temporary recovery. This time, however, the news of his death was confirmed by family members and film industry representatives, plunging fans across the Subcontinent into grief.

Dharmendra’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, with more than 300 films to his credit—including classics like Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Chupke Chupke, and Phool Aur Patthar. His final film, Ikkis, is scheduled for release this December.

Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan led the tributes, describing Dharmendra as a father figure and immortal icon. “Rest in Peace Dharam ji. You were nothing short of a father figure to me… An irreparable and inconsolable loss not just for his family, but for cinema and film lovers worldwide,” Khan wrote.

Other prominent figures including Sanjay Dutt, Kareena Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kajol expressed similar sorrow, calling his passing “the end of an era.”

Dharmendra’s personal life mirrored his on-screen charm. He remained married to his first wife, Prakash Kaur, with whom he raised children Sunny, Bobby, Ajeita, and Vijeita Deol, before marrying Hema Malini—with whom he shares daughters Esha and Ahana.

His relationships with colleagues and fans were warm and affectionate; he famously referred to Bollywood star Salman Khan as his “third son,” fueling speculation that Salman might one day portray him in a biopic.

Even in death, Dharmendra’s appeal transcends borders. Pakistani celebrities have highlighted his enduring influence on South Asian cinema, emphasizing that love for the “He-Man of Bollywood” knows no national bounds.

Through his films, personal warmth, and respect for fans everywhere, Dharmendra’s legacy continues to unite admirers on both sides of the border—proving that true cinematic legends leave an indelible mark far beyond their homeland.

As Pakistan’s stars continue to honor his memory, fans from Karachi to Lahore reflect on the lifetime of cinematic joy Dharmendra brought, while the world remembers a performer whose charm, talent, and humanity will never diminish.