Dharmendra, an 89-year-old Bollywood icon, died on November 24. The actor was discharged from Mumbai`s Breach Candy Hospital last week and has been recovering at home. Several celebrities paid tributes and condolences, with many calling his death the `end of an era.` Actor Priyanka Chopra has paid a touching tribute to the late star, recalling how kind and welcoming he and the Deol family were to her when she first began out in the Hindi film industry.
Priyanka Chopra shared a throwback picture with Dharmendra from an award show. She penned a heartfelt note for the actor, “In the year 2001, my first signing amount in the movies came from Vijayta Films. One of the first Hindi movies I ever shot was under his banner, with his eldest son. He and his family made me feel welcome in the industry, at a time when no one knew me.”
Priyanka recalls fond memories with the Deols
She added, “Very few people are capable of that kind of warmth and grace, towards a complete newcomer, who didn’t know anyone in Mumbai. I have known the Deol family since the beginning of my career. I’ve worked in multiple movies with Sunny and Bobby. This feels personal, and I know I share that feeling with many others in the world.”
She further penned in the note, “Some people leave behind films, some leave behind feelings. He has left us with both. His presence was magnetic. He filled up a frame with his smile and charisma like only he could. This is a big loss for cinema, but his legacy is permanent. As I type this note on a film set, in between shots, I think about how so many of us will always be inspired by him. Hailing from a small town with no Godfather and big dreams.. he made a permanent mark in a tough industry.. and he carried his family along.”
Priyanka Chopra`s heartfelt tribute
Priyanka then concluded, “A true blue Hindi film Hero. Rest in paradise, Dharamji. My condolences to the entire Deol family. Om Shanti.”
Dharmendra`s six-decade career has included outstanding performances in films such as Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, Jugnu, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Dost, Sholay, Pratiggya, Charas, and Dharam Veer, among others.
He will appear on screen for the final time in Agastya Nanda`s war drama `Ikkis`.
