The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. As tributes pour in from across the nation, stories of his personal connections and friendships are resurfacing, painting a vivid picture of the man behind the legendary "He-Man" of Bollywood. One such story highlights Dharmendra's close bond with a friend from his early days, a relationship built on shared dreams, struggles, and a unique camaraderie.
According to recent reports, Dharmendra shared an exceptionally close friendship with Manoj Kumar. Veteran actor Jeetendra, during an appearance on the reality show Indian Idol 16, revealed heartwarming details about their bond. Jeetendra shared that Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar were not just friends but also roommates when they first arrived in the city to pursue their acting aspirations. Both originally from North India, Dharmendra from Punjab and Manoj Kumar from Delhi, they supported each other as they navigated the challenges of breaking into the film industry.
Jeetendra fondly recalled a unique aspect of their friendship: they shared clothes. "Sometimes, when one of them had to go for a screen test, he would simply wear the other's shirt and leave," Jeetendra recounted. "There were times when Manoj Kumar would take Dharmendra's shirt, and sometimes Dharmendra would take his. They shared so much that during rehearsals, their shirts would often look exactly the same!". This anecdote illustrates the deep level of trust and reliance they had on each other during their formative years.
The two actors apparently went for auditions together. This kind of support was invaluable in an industry known for its competitiveness.
Dharmendra's connections extended beyond his early friendships. Shatrughan Sinha, another contemporary, also shared a close bond with the actor. Sinha, who entered the film industry a few years after Dharmendra, had the opportunity to work alongside him in several films. Upon returning to Mumbai after Dharmendra’s death, Sinha visited the Deol family to offer his condolences, emphasizing the personal loss he felt.
Salim Khan, the screenwriter, also had a long-standing association with Dharmendra, dating back to the late 1950s. Their professional collaboration included iconic films like Sholay and Seeta Aur Geeta. Khan and his son, Salman Khan, were present at Dharmendra's last rites, underscoring the respect and affection they held for him.
Beyond his immediate circle, Dharmendra maintained connections with fans who became friends. Saifullah Cholakkal, a 63-year-old from Kerala, shared a friendship with Dharmendra for over two decades. Despite the distance, they stayed in touch through visits and phone calls, demonstrating Dharmendra's ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Dharmendra's passing has not only left a void in the film industry but also in the lives of those who knew him personally. His early bond with Manoj Kumar, marked by shared living spaces, clothes, and auditions, exemplifies the power of friendship in overcoming adversity. Tributes from colleagues like Jeetendra and Shatrughan Sinha, and the heartfelt connection with fans like Saifullah Cholakkal, further highlight the impact he had on those around him. As the industry reflects on his contributions to cinema, these personal stories serve as a reminder of the enduring human connections that defined Dharmendra's life and career.
