The set of the popular quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati 17 was enveloped in a profound silence during a recent episode, as host Amitabh Bachchan paid a moving tribute to the legendary actor Dharmendra. The special episode featured the cast of Dharmendra's final cinematic venture, the film 'Ikkis', turning the stage into a space for collective remembrance and heartfelt emotion.
A Tribute Filled with Emotion and Memory
Opening the show, a visibly emotional Amitabh Bachchan remembered his dear friend, whom he called his family and lifelong inspiration. His voice trembled as he spoke, setting a poignant tone for the evening. He reflected on Dharmendra's enduring legacy and his final gift to cinema.
"Film 'Ikkis' is the last precious memento for us, which was left behind for millions of people," Bachchan shared. He added that an artist wishes to practice their art until their last breath, and that is precisely what Mr. Dharmendra Deol achieved. Highlighting Dharmendra's immortal presence, Bachchan said, "Mr. Dharam was not just a person. He was a feeling, and a feeling never lets you go. It becomes a memory, a blessing that keeps you going."
Ikkis Team Shares Their Blessed Experience
The cast and director of 'Ikkis', who graced the KBC hot seat, echoed the sentiments of reverence. Director Sriram Raghavan expressed his fortune, stating, "I am very blessed that he is working in my film, and that his last film is something he is extraordinarily good at."
Actor Jaideep Ahlawat, who shared significant screen space with the veteran, recalled the warmth Dharmendra brought to the set. "I was lucky to have most of my scenes with him. On set, it never felt like a superstar was sitting with us — he felt like family," Ahlawat shared, painting a picture of the actor's grounded and affectionate nature.
A Nostalgic Flashback to 'Sholay'
Adding a layer of nostalgia, Amitabh Bachchan revisited a powerful memory from the iconic film 'Sholay'. He recounted a shooting sequence in Bangalore where Dharmendra's raw physicality, stemming from his wrestling background, enhanced a dramatic scene.
"The pain you saw in the death scene was genuine. He held me so firmly that the discomfort naturally reflected in my performance," Bachchan recalled, illustrating the late actor's intense commitment to his craft. This anecdote served as a testament to Dharmendra's powerful screen presence and his profound impact on co-stars.
The episode stood as a powerful reminder that while legends may eventually leave the screen, the feelings and memories they inspire, like those embodied by Dharmendra, remain eternal. The tribute seamlessly blended personal loss with celebratory remembrance, honoring a true icon of Bollywood.
