Punjab leaders condole Dharmendra's death, recall his deep bond with state

Chandigarh, Nov 24 (PTI) Political leaders in Punjab on Monday condoled the death of veteran actor Dharmendra, saying his legacy will continue to inspire generations.

Dharmendra, whose six-decade career in showbiz spanned around 300 films from Satyakam to Sholay , died at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the actor, who hailed from a small village in the state, earned a distinguished place in Indian cinema.

"I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of renowned Bollywood actor and leader Dharmendra Deol ji. This is a huge loss for the Bollywood industry.

The chief minister said Dharmendra, the son of Punjab, was known as the Action King and He-Man of Bollywood.

“He played memorable characters in his films that will forever rule the hearts of every citizen of the country. We pray to God to grant his departed soul a place in his feet and give strength to his family and loved ones to bear this immense loss. Goodbye Dharmendra Bhaji," Mann added.

Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa described Dharmendra as a proud son of Punjab.

"Heartbroken at the passing of Dharmendra ji, a proud son of Punjab from Sahnewal, the original He-Man of Indian cinema. From the soil of Sahnewal to the heights of stardom, his life was a remarkable journey of resilience, grace and unmatched charm," he said in a post on X.

Bajwa further wrote in the post that the actor did not just act but truly lived the spirit of 'Chardhi Kala', ever-rising, ever-inspiring.

“A legend who carried Punjab in his heart and spread its warmth across the world. His legacy will continue to illuminate generations," he added.

Former chief minister and BJP leader Amarinder Singh in an X post said , "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra Deol ji. His warmth, humility and iconic contribution to Indian cinema will forever be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace." Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal said Dharmendra was a proud Punjabi in heart and soul.

"With profound sorrow, we bid farewell to Sardar Dharmendra Singh - The legendary He-man of Bollywood. Born and raised on the sacred soil of Punjab, he carried the fragrance of its fields, the warmth of its people and the resilience of its spirit wherever he went, he wrote in an X post.

A proud Punjabi in heart and soul, he remained deeply connected to his land, its language, its culture, and its timeless values till his very last breath. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in this hour of grief, Badal said.

Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring also expressed grief and said Dharmendra's simplicity, smile and passion for cinema would remain unforgettable.

In a post on X he said, "The news of the demise of the great hero of Indian cinema, the heartbeat of millions, and forever everyone's favourite Dharmendra ji is extremely heartbreaking.” “His simplicity, his smile, his unparalleled acting, and his boundless passion for cinema, will remain immortal in our memories forever. May God grant peace to his soul," he added.

Punjab BJP working president Ashwani Sharma said, "We express profound grief over the passing of Dharmendra ji, the renowned actor of the film world and a native son of Punjab.

“We pray to the Almighty to grant peace to his soul. The brilliant characters portrayed by Dharmendra ji will forever reside in our hearts," said Sharma on X. PTI CHS OZ OZ