Patna: Legendary actor Dharmendra, known as Bollywood’s “He-Man”, has died at the age of 89. He passed away on Monday afternoon at his home, and his last rites were performed at the Vile Parle crematorium in Mumbai.
Tributes poured in across the industry, including from Bhojpuri cinema’s leading star Pawan Singh, who shared a heartfelt post on Facebook. “The news of Dharmendra ji’s passing has broken my heart. Today, it feels as if a bright light has gone not just from the screen, but from my life itself,” he wrote. “I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him. Remembering his affection, simplicity, and humanity on set still brings tears to my eyes.”
Singh recounted the profound impact the actor had on his life and career. He described how, during his early struggles to make a name for himself, he found himself working alongside Dharmendra on a Bhojpuri film. “I had been watching Dharmendra in films since childhood, but I never imagined I’d be sharing a frame with him,” Singh said.
He recalled the first encounter on set: “I was nervous and hesitant to approach his vanity van. My heart was pounding, my hands were sweaty. But he smiled and said, ‘Come, son, sit.’ At that moment, it felt like an elder was embracing me.”
Dharmendra offered not only guidance but also encouragement and practical advice. “He told me to keep working hard, to stay humble even if I became a star, and to speak to people with love, because that’s what makes you a long-distance runner. If I forgot a line, he would say, ‘Don’t worry, son.’”
For Singh, this mentorship was transformative. “That very project shaped my career. Even today, when I look back, I feel that if a big star like Dharmendra hadn’t supported me at that time, my journey might have been different. For me, he wasn’t just a superstar, but a mentor who gave me my first big platform and taught me that even after reaching great heights, one should remain grounded.”
Singh said he shares this story repeatedly, hoping that new generations of actors understand the generosity and humanity of the man he considers a guiding light.
Dharmendra leaves behind a legacy not only of iconic films but also of the countless artists he inspired and nurtured, proving that his influence extended far beyond the silver screen.
