What Did Jeetendra Reveal About Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar's Friendship?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jeetendra shared touching stories about Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar's friendship.
- They shared clothes during auditions, highlighting their bond.
- Badshah delivered an emotional tribute to Dharmendra.
- Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2023.
- Jeetendra and Dharmendra starred together in several iconic films.
Mumbai, Dec 4 (NationPress) Bollywood icon Jeetendra made a special appearance on the reality singing competition Indian Idol Season 16, featuring in their Yaadon Ki Baraat segment. During the show, he revealed an intriguing anecdote about the late film legends Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar. Jeetendra disclosed that Dharmendra's closest companion in the industry was the renowned star Manoj Kumar from 'Pathhar Ke Sanam'.
“His dearest friend was Manoj Kumar,” Jeetendra stated. “Dharmendra hailed from Punjab while Manoj Kumar was from Delhi. I’ve even heard that they shared a room at a certain point,” he continued. Jeetendra further elaborated, “On occasion, when one had a screen test, he would borrow the other’s shirt to wear.”
There were instances when Manoj would don Dharmendra’s shirt, and vice versa. They were so close that during rehearsals, they often wore shirts that looked quite similar!” The emotional tribute to Dharmendra by Jeetendra was heartfelt, and singer-rapper Badshah, who judges the show, was visibly moved as Jeetendra reminisced about the late superstar.
The episode honored Dharmendra’s legacy, with Badshah previously expressing profound admiration for the actor, saying, “Dharam paaji embodied the essence of Punjab, and now it feels as if that beautiful spirit has vanished from our land.” He added, “Dharam ji, wherever you are, may you find happiness and peace.” Badshah concluded his tribute with a poignant shayari often recited by Dharmendra: “Sab kuch paakar bhi, haasil-e-zindagi kuch bhi nahi, Kambakkht jaan kyun jaati hai jaate hue.”
The passing of superstar Dharmendra on November 24 sent shockwaves through the nation, particularly within the Bollywood community. For context, Jeetendra and Dharmendra starred together in films like The Burning Train, Dharam Veer, Dharma Karma, and Kinara.
As for Manoj Kumar, he departed this world in April 2025. The two actors collaborated in the classic film Shaadi in 1962.