Bollywood superstar Salman Khan broke down in tears during the grand finale of Bigg Boss 19, offering a heartfelt and emotional tribute to the late legendary actor, Dharmendra. The incident, which unfolded on national television, showcased the deep personal bond between the two icons.
A Heartfelt Tribute on National Television
Hosting the season finale on Sunday, December 7, 2025, Salman Khan was overcome with emotion while speaking about Dharmendra. His voice trembled as he shared a poignant connection, revealing, "Dharam ji died on my father's birthday." Clips of a teary-eyed Salman quickly spread across social media, resonating deeply with fans aware of their close relationship.
Salman eulogized Dharmendra as an irreplaceable figure in Indian cinema. "We lost the He-Man. We lost the most amazing man. I don't think there is anyone better than Dharmji," he stated. He praised Dharmendra's king-size life and unwavering dedication to his craft since entering the film industry. Salman also credited the veteran star as a career inspiration, admitting, "My career graph—I have only followed Dharmji."
Remembering a Legend's Life and Legacy
Dharmendra, who would have turned 90 on December 8, 2025, passed away on November 24. His death came just weeks after he was discharged from the hospital, dashing his family's hopes for a milestone celebration. The actor was cremated privately at Pawan Hans in Mumbai. His sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, held a prayer meeting two days later to honour his extraordinary life.
Salman further highlighted the sad coincidence of dates, noting that Dharmendra's birthday on December 8 is also his mother's birthday. "If I'm feeling like this, imagine what Sunny and his family must be going through," he said, commending the Deol family for conducting the final rites and prayer meet with grace and dignity. He described it as a beautiful celebration of life.
A Private Farewell for a Public Icon
In line with Dharmendra's own wishes to maintain dignity and not appear weak, his funeral was kept a private affair. However, it drew the presence of numerous Bollywood luminaries. Attendees included his iconic Sholay co-star Amitabh Bachchan, along with Hrithik Roshan, Abhishek Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Salman Khan himself.
Dharmendra's second wife, Hema Malini, later affirmed that the private ceremony respected the actor's lifelong desire for strength and decorum. The industry's collective mourning underscores the unmatched legacy of charm, warmth, and professionalism that Dharmendra leaves behind—a legacy that continues to inspire generations, including megastars like Salman Khan.
