Pakistani stars mourn Bollywood legend

From Reema to Mahira, film fraternity pays heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra

Pakistani film and television stars have joined millions worldwide in mourning the death of Bollywood legend Dharmendra, paying heartfelt tribute to the actor who captured hearts across generations.

The veteran star's passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from Pakistan's entertainment community, reflecting the deep admiration he commanded beyond borders.

From the moment news of Dharmendra's passing broke, Pakistani celebrities shared memories and reflections of the actor's influence on their own craft and the wider cinematic world.

Actress Reema Khan, who met the veteran star in 2004, posted a photograph with him on Instagram, writing, "Cinema has lost its heartbeat, but Dharmendra's light will never dim."

Her message struck a chord with fans, many of whom remembered his iconic performances from classic films that were household favourites in Pakistan.

Renowned musician Rahat Fateh Ali Khan paid tribute by sharing a photograph with Dharmendra, recalling the actor's universal charm. "His journey, his art, and his timeless grace touched millions of hearts worldwide," Rahat wrote. "A true legend never dies; he lives on through his legacy."

Actress Mahira Khan honoured Dharmendra with images from his films on her Instagram story, acknowledging the lasting impact of his performances.

Meanwhile, actor Adnan Siddiqui praised Dharmendra's effortless acting and charisma, writing, "He made acting look effortless, like he was born for the screen. That rare mix of softness, those iconic looks, and the sparkle in his eyes were unmatched. He wasn't just a superstar; he was soul, style, and sincerity rolled into one."

TV host Anoushey Ashraf reflected on the era in which Dharmendra rose to fame, noting how the actor's generation promoted love, kindness, and human connection both on and off-screen.

Dharmendra held a special place in Pakistan, she added, citing a viral clip where Dharmendra affectionately referred to the country as his "mausi maa [mother's sister]" and expressed hope for better India-Pakistan relations.

"Dharmendra always acknowledged his fans across borders," Ashraf said. "He believed in the power of cinema to connect people, and that is why his loss is felt so deeply here in Pakistan."

Social media platforms lit up as fans shared old clips, photographs, and personal reflections, demonstrating the cross-border admiration for the actor who became a symbol of timeless charm and charisma.

While Pakistani celebrities led the tributes, India's film fraternity also mourned the loss of Dharmendra Deol, who passed away on Monday in Mumbai at the age of 89. The actor had been hospitalised earlier this month with respiratory complications and succumbed despite medical efforts.

Earlier rumours about his deteriorating health had surfaced on November 10, but his family had dismissed them after his temporary recovery. This time, however, the news of his passing was confirmed by family members and film fraternity representatives, leaving fans across the Subcontinent in mourning.

Dharmendra's illustrious career spanned more than six decades, with over 300 films including classics such as 'Sholay', 'Seeta Aur Geeta', 'Chupke Chupke', and 'Phool Aur Patthar'. His final film, 'Ikkis', is set for release this December.

Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan led the tributes, describing Dharmendra as a father figure and immortal icon. Khan wrote, "Rest in Peace Dharam ji. You were nothing short of a father figure to me… An inconsolable and irreplaceable loss to not just his family, but to cinema and film lovers worldwide."

Other notable figures including Sanjay Dutt, Kareena Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kajol expressed similar grief, calling his passing the "end of an era."

Dharmendra's personal life mirrored his on-screen charm. He remained married to his first wife, Prakash Kaur, and raised children Sunny, Bobby, Ajeita, and Vijeita Deol before marrying Hema Malini, with whom he had daughters Esha and Ahana.

His relationships with colleagues and fans were warm and affectionate, and he famously referred to Bollywood star Salman Khan as his "third son," sparking speculation that the actor could one day portray Dharmendra in a biopic.

Even in death, Dharmendra's appeal bridges borders. Pakistani celebrities have reminded audiences of his enduring influence on South Asian cinema, showing that the love for the "He-Man of Bollywood" transcends nationality.

Through his films, personal warmth, and respect for fans everywhere, Dharmendra's legacy continues to unite admirers on both sides of the border, proving that true cinematic legends leave an indelible mark far beyond their homeland.

As Pakistan's stars continue to honour his memory, fans from Karachi to Lahore are reflecting on a lifetime of cinematic joy that Dharmendra delivered, while the world remembers a performer whose charm, talent, and humanity will never fade.