Amitabh Bachchan Pens Heartfelt Tribute to Dharmendra

Amitabh Bachchan paid an emotional tribute to Dharmendra on Tuesday, remembering his friend and iconic co-star as a man who remained pure and untainted throughout a long and illustrious career. Dharmendra, 89, passed away on Monday at his Juhu residence after a prolonged illness.

Reflecting on their bond through classics like Sholay and Chupke Chupke, Bachchan described his loss as the departure of “another valiant giant,” leaving behind a silence that feels overwhelming. Their portrayal of Jai and Veeru in Sholay, cemented through the unforgettable track Ye Dosti, remains one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated depictions of friendship.

Bachchan attended the actor’s final rites along with his son Abhishek and grandson Agastya Nanda, who stars as Dharmendra’s son in the upcoming film Ikkis, possibly the late legend’s final screen appearance.

In his blog post, Bachchan remembered Dharmendra as the embodiment of warmth, simplicity, and generosity. He praised the veteran’s grounded nature, saying he carried the essence of his Punjabi roots with him and stayed unchanged even as the film industry evolved dramatically over decades. According to Bachchan, Dharmendra’s charm, heartfelt smile, and gentle presence touched everyone who came near him — a rare quality in the profession.