In a heartfelt and emotionally charged gathering in New Delhi on Thursday, friends, family, colleagues, and well-known public figures came together to pay tribute to the late Bollywood legend Dharmendra, whose passing on November 24, 2025, has left a deep void in the Indian film industry and beyond. The prayer meet, organized by his wife and veteran actor Hema Malini, was a moving occasion that highlighted the profound respect the iconic actor inspired across generations and sectors of society.
The event took place at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre on Janpath, where an atmosphere of solemnity and shared grief prevailed throughout the afternoon and evening. Hema Malini, accompanied by her daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, welcomed attendees and led proceedings with a deeply emotional speech that reflected both her personal loss and the enduring legacy of her husband.
Many prominent figures from both the entertainment world and the political arena were present to honor Dharmendra’s memory. Among them were Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who paid floral tribute and recalled past conversations with Dharmendra, sharing anecdotes that illustrated the late actor’s warmth and depth of character. Other senior political leaders, including BJP President JP Nadda, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, also attended to express their condolences and respect.
Adding to the significance of the event was the presence of several celebrities from the film fraternity. Actress and politician Kangana Ranaut, in her remarks, spoke about the remarkable journey Dharmendra undertook—from his humble beginnings in a small village to becoming one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars. Ranaut poignantly noted that his life story resonated with her own, underscoring how Dharmendra’s rise to fame remains an inspiration to many aspiring artists.
The prayer meet was not just a gathering of high-profile individuals—it served as a powerful reminder of the wide-ranging influence Dharmendra had over his nearly seven-decade-long career. Known affectionately as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” Dharmendra’s body of work spanned iconic roles in classics such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar, and many others that helped shape the landscape of Hindi cinema.
During the ceremony, participants paid their respects by placing flowers and bowing before a framed photograph of Dharmendra, reflecting the profound love and admiration held for him by his peers and admirers alike. Emotions were particularly raw for Hema Malini, who, as captured in footage from the event, became visibly overwhelmed as she addressed the gathering, speaking candidly about the enduring bond she shared with her husband and the void his absence has left in her life.
Family members including Esha Deol and Ahana Deol also shared in these poignant moments, standing by their mother’s side as they collectively honored their father’s memory. The support and presence of family members brought a deeply personal dimension to the tribute, reminding everyone of the profound human loss that lies behind public mourning.
Leaders and celebrities alike spoke about Dharmendra’s character—not just as an actor but as a humble and grounded individual whose connection with people transcended his screen persona. Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, while paying homage, reflected on his extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema and how his charm and dedication made him a beloved figure across the country.
For many who attended, the prayer meet was an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the legacy of a man whose influence extended well beyond the silver screen. Political figures honored Dharmendra’s service to the nation, while actors and entertainers shared stories of his generosity and professionalism. Every tribute underscored the bond between Dharmendra and those who had worked with him or admired him from afar.
The gathering also served as a moment of unity among different spheres of public life, reflecting how Dharmendra’s work and personality bridged the worlds of cinema, politics, and cultural conversation. High-profile attendance from across these arenas highlighted not only the esteem in which he was held but also the profound sense of loss his passing has created among peers, politicians, and fans alike.
As the meet came to a close, attendees offered their final respects and departed with a renewed appreciation of Dharmendra’s extraordinary journey. His legacy—marked by memorable performances, humility, and an enduring appeal—will continue to be celebrated by audiences and colleagues for years to come. Through events like this prayer meet, the legend of Dharmendra remains vividly alive in the hearts of many.
