Juhi Chawla Pays Tribute To Dharmendra: ‘His Enigmatic Presence Lit Up The Silver Screen’

Bollywood’s beloved “He-Man” Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 due to age-related complications, leaving behind a profound void in Hindi cinema and in the hearts of millions of fans. The news of his

demise sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry, plunging it into deep mourning. Tributes poured in from all corners of the film fraternity, with Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Karan Johar, Preity Zinta and many others expressing condolences.

Actress Juhi Chawla has now shared an emotional note, remembering the legendary star’s charm, charisma and timeless performances. Expressing grief over his demise, the actress took to X (formerly Twitter) and remembered Dharmendra’s enigmatic presence that always lit up the silver screen.

Juhi Chawla’s Post

Taking to social media, Juhi reminisced about watching Sholay repeatedly as a child, vividly recalling Dharmendra’s iconic moments as the unforgettable Veeru.

“When I was a child, I watched Sholay so many times … the drunken Veeru on the village water tanker proposing to Basanti, Veeru in the temple behind Shivji fooling Basanti, Veeru & Jai on the scooter singing Ye Dosti … Dharamji was a born superstar …” she wrote.

Juhi added that his “good looks, romance, strength, humour and iconic dance moves” would remain etched in hearts forever. “His enigmatic presence lit up the silver screen … His good looks, romance, strength & humour anddd his iconic dance moves ..!! He will live in our hearts forever,” Juhi said.

“Deeply saddened to hear the news … Heartfelt condolences to the entire family. Rest in peace Dharamji,” Juhi expressed in her tribute.

When I was a child, I watched Sholay so many times … the drunken Veeru on the village water tanker proposing to Basanti, Veeru in the temple behind Shivji fooling Basanti, Veeru & Jai on the scooter singing Ye Dosti … Dharamji was a born superstar … His enigmatic presence lit… pic.twitter.com/7ktxFz76cw

— Juhi Chawla Mehta (@iam_juhi) November 24, 2025

About The Iconic Film Sholay

Headlined by Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan, Sholay released in theatres in 1975 and is widely regarded as one of the most influential films in Indian cinema. The Ramesh Sippy–directed action drama has remained etched in the memories of audiences across generations. The film also starred Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, Asrani and Amjad Khan, among other Bollywood greats.

Sholay follows the story of two ex-convicts, Jai and Veeru, who are recruited by a retired police officer, Thakur Baldev Singh, to capture the notorious dacoit Gabbar Singh. Beyond its gripping plot, the film beautifully portrays the deep friendship between the characters played by Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan, as well as Dharmendra’s on-screen romance with Hema Malini.

Dharmendra’s Demise

The veteran actor breathed his last on November 24, just days after being discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. He had been admitted for a routine check-up after experiencing breathlessness. Although his condition showed slight improvement, his family decided to bring him home so he could be surrounded by comfort and loved ones in his final days.

Doctors continued monitoring him daily, but despite every effort, his condition deteriorated unexpectedly on Monday morning, leading to his demise.

Dharmendra’s Last Cinematic Brilliance

Dharmendra’s demise marks the end of an era for Indian cinema. Fans will see the legendary actor one last time on-screen in Ikkis. The biographical war drama, set to release this December 25, also stars Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, and Jaideep Ahlawat in lead roles, and is directed by Sriram Raghavan.

Made under the direction of Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film revisits the life of Arun Khetarpal, whose extraordinary bravery on the battlefield turned him into a national hero. With the screenplay crafted by Sriram Raghavan, Arijit Biswas, and Pooja Ladha Surti, Ikkis promises precision, emotional control, and an unflinching focus on character.