Mumbai: Priyanka Chopra Jonas has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran actor Dharmendra, sharing a personal memory that reflected the warmth and generosity she experienced from him and his family early in her career.
Posting an old photograph with the late star, Priyanka wrote that her first film signing amount in 2001 came from Vijayta Films. “One of the first Hindi movies I ever shot was under his banner, with his eldest son,” she said.
She added that Dharmendra and his family extended genuine kindness at a time when she was entirely new to the industry. “He and his family made me feel welcome in the industry at a time when no one knew me. Very few people are capable of that kind of warmth and grace towards a complete newcomer who didn’t know anyone in Mumbai,” she wrote. Priyanka noted that she has known the Deol family since the start of her journey and has worked in several films with Sunny and Bobby Deol.
Calling Dharmendra’s death deeply personal, she said, “Some people leave behind films; some leave behind feelings. He has left us with both. His presence was magnetic. He filled up a frame with his smile and charisma like only he could.”
Describing him as a true icon, Priyanka added, “This is a big loss for cinema, but his legacy is permanent. As I type this note on a film set, in between shots, I think about how so many of us will always be inspired by him. Hailing from a small town with no Godfather and big dreams, he made a permanent mark in a tough industry, and he carried his family along. A true blue Hindi film hero.”
She ended her tribute with, “Rest in paradise, Dharamji. My condolences to the entire Deol family. Om Shanti.”
Priyanka shared screen space with Sunny Deol in ‘Hero: The Love Story of a Spy’ and ‘Big Brother.’ She also appeared alongside Bobby Deol in films such as ‘Barsaat,’ ‘Chamku,’ and ‘Kismat.’
Dharmendra, aged 89, passed away on November 24.
