Dharmendra Dies At 89: Saira Banu Is Deeply Saddened With Loss Of Bollywood's 'Gem,' Says 'Aise Insaan Fir Milenge Nahi' | EXCL

Veteran

actor Dharmendra has passed away at the age of 89 after being in critical condition for a prolonged period. In an exclusive conversation with Zoom, Saira Banu shared a deeply emotional tribute to the beloved star.

Saira Banu Remembers Dharmendra: “A Gem of a Man… Irreplaceable”

Speaking to Zoom, Saira Banu mourned the loss of the legendary actor. She said, "It's a terrible day, itni memories hain, kya bolungi main, I'm going now, itni memories hain, gem of a man, irreplaceable man. Aise insaan banenge nahi, phir milenge nahin aapko. Dilip Sahab ke chote bhai the vo bilkul, aur vo Dilip Sahab ko apna bada bhai maante chale, inspired by Dilip Sahab to come into the film industry, Dharam ji kehte the he came to the industry, and he loved him, and they spent so much time together, chahe subah ho, shaam ho, raat ke 2 baje. He was absolute family to Dilip Sahab and us and he was so dear to me, he was so down to earth. We will love him forever and there will be no one like Dharam Ji, no one like Dilip Sahab, they were of different species."ALSO READ: Dharmendra Death: Karan Johar Bids Emotional Adieu - 'Abhi Na Jao Chodke Ke Dil Abhi Bhara Nahi'

Dharmendra’s Final Days

Earlier this month, Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. He was discharged a few days later and continued treatment at home.On November 12, Sunny Deol’s team issued a statement: "Mr Dharmendra has been discharged from the hospital and will continue his recovery at home… Please respect him because he loves you."

A Legend’s Last Screen Appearance

Just hours before his passing, the makers of Ikkis released Dharmendra’s character poster with the caption: "Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations… One timeless legend brings us the story of another."Dharmendra was last seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His final film, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, will be released on December 25.