The Indian film fraternity is mourning the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra, who died on Monday, November 24, at the age of 89. Tributes have been pouring in from fans, colleagues, and admirers across the country. Among the most heartfelt messages was one shared by his close friend and veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha, who posted an emotional note in remembrance of the beloved star.
Sinha took to X to share a collection of nostalgic photographs documenting his long association with Dharmendra—ranging from film stills to award ceremony snapshots and rare, unseen images. Expressing his grief, 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 true sense, and a humble, down-to-earth human being.” He added that the actor’s contribution to Indian cinema would be remembered forever.
Reflecting on their personal bond, Sinha continued, “An entire era of a true ‘He-Man’ has ended. My first hero and the people’s hero is no more. It is an irreparable and irreplaceable loss to all of us and the film 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 and enduring friendship, having worked together in several films such as Aag Hi Aag, Zalzala, Hum Se Na Takrana, Blackmail, and Laha. Sinha revealed that he had recently visited Dharmendra, who appeared cheerful despite his health issues. “He looked handsome and radiant even when ill. We believed he would recover,” Sinha said.
Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai due to health complications. Though discharged, reports indicated he was later placed on a ventilator after developing breathing difficulties. Despite brief signs of improvement, the veteran actor passed away on November 24. His final screen appearance will be in Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, set to release on December 25.