Ameesha Patel Recalls Dharmendra's Prediction About 'Deol-Patel Ki Jodi', Says 'God Creates Such Souls Once In Lifetime' - EXCLUSIVE

Bollywood

and the nation are grappling with an irreplaceable loss as veteran actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most cherished icons, passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. His death marks the end of a cinematic era that shaped generations of audiences, filmmakers, and artists. Tributes have been pouring in from across the globe, industry colleagues, political leaders, and millions of fans, honouring a man whose body of work and unparalleled charm earned him the status of a true legend. With over 300 films to his name, Dharmendra effortlessly transitioned between genres, redefining stardom with classics like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Anupama, Dharam Veer and countless others.

Ameesha Patel gets emotional, pays touching homage to Dharmendra

Among those deeply affected by his passing is actress Ameesha Patel, who shared a close and meaningful connection with the Deol family. Speaking to Zoom, she opened up about the immense personal and emotional void left behind by Dharmendra’s demise, describing him as not just a legendary actor but one of the finest human beings she has ever known.Ameesha began her tribute with heartfelt admiration for the late actor’s legacy. “Well, first, I would like to say that we actually lost a legend as an actor. A legendary film hero, the He-man, the best looking man Indian cinema has ever seen. Someone who could have been a rival to the most prolific Hollywood stars, for sure,” she said.But for Ameesha, Dharmendra’s greatness extended far beyond the screen. “But what we most importantly lost is a legendary human being. What people never got to know the side of him and what people did know of him, people that knew him, was what an amazing human being he was. There will never be another like him. There can't be. God creates these kind of people only once in a lifetime. And that for me was Dharamji. And that's the reason because he's the patriarch, he was the head.”

Ameesha recalls Deol family's support

She spoke about the warmth and integrity of the entire Deol family, calling them the kindest people she has encountered in the industry. “The Deol family is the finest in the film industry. I haven't met any family that comes close to them in the film industry, for sure.”Ameesha then revealed a lesser-known story from her early days, one that solidified her lifelong bond with Dharmendra’s family. “And the sweetest fact is that Vijayta Films was actually the first production house that signed me. Before I signed Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, I was going to be their heroine, launched by Vijayta Films.”She went on to say, “And the film got delayed. And then it was Mr. Rakesh Roshan. And I was still under contract with Vijayta Films. And I went to Sunny and I said, ‘Sunny, you know, I have this film with Mr. Rakesh Roshan, please release me from the contract.’ And he tore the contract in seconds. So I have a very, very deep bond with the family.”

Ameesha's precious memory with Dharmendra

One of her most treasured memories came from the trial screening of Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, where Dharmendra embraced her warmly and expressed his pride. “Dharamji walked out after the show. I touched his feet, gave him a hug. And he said he was so proud of Sakina's work. And he started calling me Sakina even before the release of the film.”She also fondly recalled the blessing he gave her early on—words that, in hindsight, proved prophetic. “He told me a very sweet thing. He said, ‘Jab jab Sunny aur Bobby Ameesha ke saath kaam karege, aur Deol aur Patel ki jodi hogi, toh woh jodi hamesha super hit hogi, woh blockbuster jodi hogi.’”And indeed, as Ameesha pointed out, his words materialised with Gadar: Ek Prem Katha becoming a historic blockbuster, followed by Humraaz with Bobby Deol.With deep emotion, she reiterated the magnitude of the loss. “But like I said, you know, we've lost not only a legendary actor, but the finest, most legendary human being. He just carried goodness with him everywhere he went. And he touched the hearts of people. East, West, North, South. He touched the hearts of people.”ALSO READ: Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli Mourn Dharmendra's Death, Call Him 'Legendary Icon'

Ameesha prays for Sunny Deol and family

Ameesha expressed her heartfelt concern for the Deol family, who shared an extraordinary bond with their patriarch. “I know it's going to be a very, very hard time for the family, especially for Sunny. And I only pray that the family gets all the strength because they've lost their biggest pillar, you know, and it's very hard to wrap your head around something like this. No matter what age, what stage, you know, everyone knows it's an eventuality, but it's very hard to let go because of the finest human being that he was. So I just pray for all of them that God gives them the strength to go through these tough times.”Dharmendra’s passing has left the film industry and the nation grieving deeply. Yet, through heartfelt tributes like Ameesha Patel’s, it becomes clear that his legacy is far greater than his on-screen achievements. He leaves behind not only unforgettable films but also a legacy of generosity, humility, and pure-hearted goodness that touched everyone he met.His legend lives on, in his work, in the memories of those who loved him, and in the hearts of millions.