Dharmendra passes away: PM Modi, Akshay Kumar and others pay tribute to Bollywood legend

The passing of veteran actor Dharmendra at 89 has sparked an outpouring of grief across India, with top film stars, political leaders, and public figures taking to social media to honour the legendary performer. Within minutes of the announcement, tributes poured in, with colleagues calling his death “the end of an era” and remembering him as one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring and cherished icons.

Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India: “The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti.”

The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2025

Smt. Droupadi Murmu, President of India: “The demise of veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Shri Dharmendra Ji is a great loss to Indian cinema. One of the most popular actors, he delivered numerous memorable performances during his decades-long illustrious career. As a towering figure of Indian cinema, he leaves behind a legacy which will continue to inspire young generations of artists. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”

The demise of veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Shri Dharmendra Ji is a great loss to Indian cinema. One of the most popular actors, he delivered numerous memorable performances during his decades-long illustrious career. As a towering figure of Indian cinema, he…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 24, 2025

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister: “Dharmendra was not just a good actor but also a good and simple human being. I had a personal connection with him… His work in films cannot be forgotten.”

Deeply anguished by the passing of Dharmendra Ji, one of the greatest legends of Indian cinema. His timeless performances, humility, and magnetic presence shaped generations of film lovers and artists alike. India has lost a true icon whose legacy will endure forever. My…

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) November 24, 2025

Amit Shah, Home Minister

Shah wrote that the actor’s passing “marks the loss of one of the most admired cultural figures of our time.”

अपने बेहतरीन अभिनय से 6 दशकों तक हर देशवासी के दिल को छूने वाले धर्मेंद्र जी का निधन भारतीय सिनेमा जगत के लिए अपूरणीय क्षति है। एक सामान्य परिवार से आकर उन्होंने फिल्म जगत में अपनी अमिट पहचान बनाई।
धर्मेंद्र जी उन चुनिंदा अभिनेताओं में से एक रहे, जिन्होंने जिस किरदार को छुआ, वह…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 24, 2025

Karan Johar was among the first industry voices to post a public message.

“It’s the end of an era, a massive megastar, the embodiment of a hero in mainstream cinema, incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence.”
He added, “It will always be my blessing to have worked with you.”

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A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar)

Akshay Kumar: “Growing up, Dharmendra ji was the hero every boy wanted to be…our industry’s original He-Man. Thank you for inspiring generations. You’ll live on through your films and the love you spread. Om Shanti.”

Growing up, Dharmendra ji was the hero every boy wanted to be…our industry’s original He-Man.
Thank you for inspiring generations.
You’ll live on through your films and the love you spread. Om Shanti ? pic.twitter.com/Vj6OzV20Xz

— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) November 24, 2025

Madhur Bhandarkar: “I’m deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the legendary Dharmendra ji, the real He-Man of Indian cinema. I had the privilege of meeting him many times, he was always vibrant & full of humor. His remarkable contributions mark the end of an era in Indian cinema and will be eternally remembered. Om Shanti.”

Kareena Kapoor Shared throwback pictures of Dharmendra with her grandfather Raj Kapoor, and wrote: “Forever in power.”

Shahid Kapoor: “A true legend leaves behind an immortal legacy.”

Kajol Devgn: “The OG of the Good Man is gone and the world is poorer for it.. somehow it seems like we are only losing the good people in it. Kind to the core and loved always . RIP Dharamji .. with love always ?”

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A post shared by Kajol Devgan (@kajol)

Shilpa Shetty Kundra: “I’ve had the privilege of working with many talented actors, but none with a bigger heart than yours. Your talent, charm and dashing looks were just the beginning but your humility, simplicity and kindness were so inspiring. You were a true original, a shining star that touched so many hearts. Rest in peace you special soul. Dharam ji, you will be missed. Om Shanti.”

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A post shared by Shilpa Shetty Kundra (@theshilpashetty)

Social media platforms saw an outpouring of fan messages, with “Dharmendra” and “He-Man” trending nationwide within minutes of the announcement. Posts featured clips from Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, and Satyakam, with fans recalling the actor’s warmth, screen presence, and decades-long legacy.

The overwhelming response on social media reflects not only his stature as one of India’s most celebrated stars, but also the deep emotional imprint he left on millions. As the industry and the country bid farewell, one truth stands out clearly: Dharmendra was more than a legendary actor — he was a cultural force whose warmth, humility and iconic performances shaped the landscape of Indian cinema. His legacy will continue to live on through his films, his family, and the countless lives he touched along the way.