Alia Bhatt has joined the chorus of Bollywood stars paying tribute to the legendary Dharmendra, who passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The actress, who shared screen space with the veteran actor in the film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, posted a heartfelt message on her Instagram Story, remembering him as a legend who "lit up every frame and every heart".
Bhatt shared a touching still from Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani showing her sitting beside Dharmendra, both smiling warmly. The image beautifully captured their on-screen bond, where Dharmendra played Kanwal Lund, the lovable and emotional grandfather, opposite Alia's character, Rani.
"A legend who lit up every frame… and every heart. You will be missed, Dharam ji," Alia wrote beneath the image. Her simple yet profound words resonated with the sentiments of an entire nation mourning the loss of an icon.
During the filming of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Alia often spoke about how Dharmendra's presence brought warmth to the set. She recalled how his effortless charm, old-school grace, and quiet humor captivated everyone around him. Crew members noted how he treated every actor, regardless of seniority, with equal affection. For Alia, who grew up idolizing him, sharing screen space with Dharmendra was both a privilege and a cherished memory.
Dharmendra had been under medical supervision at home after being discharged from Breach Candy Hospital earlier in November. He was initially admitted for respiratory complications and was later discharged to continue observation at home.
Dharmendra's last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle. His wife, Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and daughters Esha, Ahana, Vijeta, and Ajeita, were present during the final rituals.
Following the news of his demise, numerous Bollywood celebrities visited the Deol residence to offer condolences and support to the family. Among those spotted were Shilpa Shetty, Shamita Shetty, Kajol, Raj Kundra, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, and Amitabh Bachchan.
Shah Rukh Khan also penned a moving tribute to Dharmendra, describing him as a father figure. "Rest in peace, Dharam ji," SRK wrote on Instagram. "You were nothing short of a father figure to me… thank you for showering me with blessings and love the way you did. An inconsolable and irreplaceable loss to not just your family, but to cinema and film lovers world over. You are immortal… and your soul will live through your films and your beautiful family forever. Love you always".
As condolences pour in from all corners of the film industry, Alia's tribute represents the grief of a younger generation of stars who idolized Dharmendra. For them, he was not just a veteran actor but an embodiment of an era where cinema was pure emotion, and stardom came with humility.
Dharmendra's passing has left an unimaginable void. His kindness, dignified aura, unmatched charm, and ability to make anyone feel at home were qualities that Alia and countless others deeply admired. He lit up every film he touched, every room he walked into, and every heart he encountered.
