The Indian film industry came together in a moving tribute to honor the life and legacy of Bollywood legend Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025. Instead of a traditional prayer meeting, his family organized a special 'Celebration of Life' gathering on Thursday, November 27, at the prestigious Taj Lands End hotel in Bandra, Mumbai.
Emotional Family Arrival and Star-Studded Gathering
Among the first to arrive at the heartfelt event were Dharmendra's immediate family members, including his son Bobby Deol, who appeared visibly emotional as he stepped out of his car. The gathering also saw the presence of Sunny Deol's son Karan Deol and nephew Abhay Deol, who joined together in quiet solidarity to support the family during this difficult time.
The venue witnessed a steady stream of Bollywood celebrities arriving to pay their final respects to the beloved veteran actor. The star-studded attendance included veteran actress Rekha, along with prominent industry figures such as Sidharth Malhotra, Arhaan Khan, Amrita Arora, Sharman Joshi, Suniel Shetty, and Jackie Shroff. Many more stars were expected to join the gathering as the evening progressed.
Sonu Nigam's Musical Tribute to Iconic Songs
In a departure from conventional memorial services, the Deol family chose to reflect Dharmendra's vibrant personality through a 'Celebration of Life' that mirrored how he lived - with warmth, generosity, and boundless joy. According to reports from Bollywood Hungama, the family specifically requested this format to honor his spirited approach to life.
Adding a particularly touching element to the ceremony, renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam was invited to perform some of Dharmendra's most iconic film songs. The musical performance was carefully curated to evoke the charm and romance that characterized the late actor's extensive filmography. Through music, the event aimed to transform sorrow into smiles while celebrating the enduring themes of love, friendship, and togetherness that defined both Dharmendra's films and his personal philosophy.
Heartfelt Social Media Tributes and Lasting Legacy
On the day of the memorial gathering, Hema Malini, Dharmendra's wife, shared an emotional tribute on social media platforms. In her heartfelt note, she described him as her everything - a loving husband, devoted father to their daughters Esha and Ahana, and a constant companion who served as her friend, philosopher, guide, poet, and primary support system. She emphasized that he had always stood by her through both joyful moments and challenging times.
While Dharmendra's legendary performances in classic films like 'Sholay', 'Chupke Chupke', and 'Seeta Aur Geeta' will forever remain part of Indian cinema's golden heritage, those who knew him personally remember him equally for his humility, kindness, and deep devotion to family. The 'Celebration of Life' event successfully captured his essential spirit, bringing together family members, close friends, colleagues, and admirers to honor a man who gave immeasurably to both the art of cinema and the lives of people around him.
