Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy paid an emotional tribute to Dharmendra at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on Thursday during a special session titled 50 Years of Sholay: Why Sholay Still Resonates. Speaking about the late legend, Sippy reflected on their five-decade bond and Dharmendra’s irreplaceable legacy in Indian cinema.When an audience member asked him about the actor, Sippy paused before saying, “It’s been difficult talking about him. It (Dharmendra’s death) just happened. I think he was the most wonderful man, one of the finest ever. That place will never be filled by anybody else. I am sure we will have other actors who are good, but there will be no Dharmendra again. He was absolutely magnificent, both as a human being and as an actor.”
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Dharmendra, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 89, shared an enduring friendship with Sippy—one that began long before Sholay became a cultural phenomenon. His portrayal of Veeru in the 1975 blockbuster remains one of his most iconic roles. A newly restored 4K version of Sholay is now set to release in cinemas on December 12, reigniting nostalgia for one of India’s most influential films.Sippy added, “I will miss him a lot. I recently messaged and met Sunny and Bobby. I just don’t know what to say except that all of us here will join in wishing him the very best in his new home, wherever he is.”
Dharmendra’s family hosts ‘Celebration of Life’ prayer meet
After a private funeral earlier this week, Dharmendra’s family organised a public prayer meet titled ‘Celebration of Life’ on Thursday at Taj Lands End, Bandra, giving fans and film industry members an opportunity to pay their final respects. The gathering was held on the lawns from 5 pm to 7.30 pm.Preparations were underway throughout the day, with seating arrangements, floral décor and security being finalised as hotel staff coordinated closely with event planners.
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A legendary career that defined Indian cinema
Fondly called the “He-Man of Bollywood,” Dharmendra enjoyed a six-decade career marked by iconic performances across genres—from romance and action to drama and comedy. His charisma, versatility, and humility made him one of the most loved stars in Indian film history.Dharmendra’s last rites, held on November 25, were attended by family members and several top Bollywood personalities including Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Salim Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Shabana Azmi, Sanjay Dutt, Ranveer Singh, and Deepika Padukone, among others.