Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar lead tributes for Bollywood legend Dharmendra

Legendary actor Dharmendra—the face, the force, and the heartbeat of Hindi cinema’s golden era—passed away in Mumbai on Monday (November 24) at the age of 89. The iconic actor had been battling age-related health issues and had spent the past several days moving in and out of Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai.

His loss has shaken the entertainment world, the nation, and fans across the world, including Pakistan. From political leaders to Bollywood personalities and even top athletes, tributes poured in for Dharmendra, reflecting the massive influence he carried for more than six decades.

Tributes pour in from Pakistan after Dharmendra passes away at 89

Dharmendra’s unforgettable performances in classics like 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 shaped the childhoods and memories of millions.

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For many, Dharmendra Deol was the face of heroism, romance, and raw emotional power on the big screen. The news of the iconic actor’s passing crossed borders too. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif shared his heartfelt admiration for the veteran actor and reflected on how Dharmendra’s films and charm made him a beloved star across the subcontinent.

His popularity in Pakistan remained as strong as it was in India, proving how art dissolves boundaries. Rashid Latif was quoted as saying by IANS: “Dharmendra ji was a legendary hero, and Sholay remains an all-time classic. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy across the subcontinent and was immensely popular in Pakistan as well. My deepest condolences.”

Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra, calls mim a timeless icon

Meanwhile, Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli also expressed his mourning in an emotional post, calling Dharmendra a true icon whose charisma lit up every frame he ever appeared in. He also highlighted how deeply the actor’s work touched audiences for decades.

Kohli posted, X: “Today, we have lost a legend of Indian cinema who captivated hearts with his charm and his talent. A true icon who inspired everyone who watched him. May the family find strength in this tough time. My sincere condolences to the whole family. 🙏🙏”

Today, we have lost a legend of Indian cinema who captivated hearts with his charm and his talent. A true icon who inspired everyone who watched him. May the family find strength in this tough time. My sincere condolences to the whole family. 🙏🙏

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) November 24, 2025

Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai: Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar also shared a heartfelt post for the legendary actor. Tendulkar posted, X: “I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him.”

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The legendary cricketer further added, “His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, “Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh jaata hai mera. He had an effortless warmth, making everyone around him feel valued and special. It was impossible not to be a fan of the person he was. Today, my heart feels heavy with his passing. Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai. Will miss you. 🙏🏻”

I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him.

His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, “Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh… pic.twitter.com/A8CmgR9WkW

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 24, 2025

Dharmendra’s journey from Punjab to Bollywood

Dharmendra’s journey is as inspiring as his performances. Born in Punjab in 1935, the Bollywood icon grew up far from the glamour of films. His life changed in the late 1950s when Filmfare magazine and Bimal Roy Productions launched a nationwide talent hunt to discover new faces for Hindi cinema.

Dharmendra participated in the contest in 1958 and even won. His charming personality and effortless screen presence opened the doors to the tinsel town, and soon he became one of the biggest stars the country had ever seen. He leaves behind a legacy that will live forever.