Is the Indian art world facing an irreparable loss with Dharmendra's passing?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dharmendra's legacy spans almost 70 years in cinema.
- His passing is seen as a significant loss for the Indian art community.
- Political leaders have publicly mourned his death.
- Dharmendra faced health challenges before his demise.
- He was a beloved figure in Bollywood, influencing many.
New Delhi, Nov 24 (NationPress) Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of Bollywood icon Dharmendra, stating that his passing “represents an irreparable loss for the Indian art world.”
“The news of the great actor Dharmendra ji's death is profoundly heartbreaking, marking an irreparable loss for the Indian art world. His unmatched contributions to cinema for almost seven decades will forever be cherished with admiration and affection,” shared Rahul Gandhi on X.
“I extend my deepest condolences to Dharmendra. During this time of mourning, my thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans,” he continued.
Congress General Secretary K C Venugopal also conveyed his heartfelt sorrow regarding the esteemed actor’s passing.
“The country has lost a genuine cinematic legend. I stand with millions of fans in grieving the loss of the illustrious actor Dharmendra. His performances over 70 years have significantly influenced Indian cinema and culture. My sympathies go out to his family and supporters during this challenging period,” Venugopal remarked on X.
Previously, the actor had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai, where he was later discharged after showing signs of recovery.
Reports indicated that he had been placed on a ventilator due to breathing difficulties. He resided at his Khandala farmhouse with his first wife, Prakash Kaur.
He had moved to Khandala to escape the deteriorating pollution levels in Mumbai.
This incident adds to the recent losses in Hindi cinema, following the deaths of actors Pankaj Dheer, Asrani, Satish Shah, and advertising magnate Piyush Pandey last month.
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra was one of Bollywood’s most cherished and lasting stars, beginning his career in the early 1960s after being discovered in a national talent search.
In the late 1950s, Filmfare magazine, in partnership with Bimal Roy Productions, hosted a nationwide talent contest to scout new talent for Hindi cinema.