The world of Indian cinema and sports is in mourning. On a somber Monday, November 24, 2025, the nation bid farewell to Dharmendra, the legendary ‘He-Man of Bollywood,’ who passed away at the age of 89 . His demise, reportedly due to age-related health complications and acute pneumonia , has left a void that resonates far beyond the silver screen.
What’s truly remarkable is how swiftly and deeply the news of Dharmendra death touched the hearts of India’s sporting heroes, particularly its cricketing icons. In a powerful display of national unity in grief, players from across generations have shared their condolences, painting a picture of a man whose charm and legacy transcended the boundaries of his own industry.
Table of Contents
- A Nation Mourns: The He-Man of Bollywood
- Virat Kohli Leads Cricket Fraternity in Dharmendra Death Tributes
- A United Cricket Community Pays Respects
- IPL Teams Honour a True Icon
- Why Dharam Ji’s Legacy Resonates with Cricket
- Final Thoughts: A Legend Forever
- Sources
A Nation Mourns: The He-Man of Bollywood
Dharmendra, a towering figure in Indian cinema for over six decades, was more than just an actor; he was a cultural institution. His films like Sholay and Dostana weren’t just box office hits—they were family events, watched and re-watched in households across the country. His blend of rugged charisma, vulnerability, and an everyman’s appeal made him a beloved figure to millions. His passing, just weeks before his 90th birthday, marks the end of an era .
Virat Kohli Leads Cricket Fraternity in Dharmendra Death Tributes
Former Indian captain and one of the game’s modern greats, Virat Kohli, was among the first from the sports world to react. On his social media, Kohli penned a poignant message that has since been widely shared: “Today, we have lost a legend. His films, his style, and his warmth will be remembered for generations.”
Kohli’s tribute is a testament to Dharmendra’s cross-generational appeal. For someone who grew up on a diet of 70s and 80s Bollywood, Dharmendra wasn’t just a star; he was an emotion. Kohli’s words capture the collective sentiment of a nation that saw a piece of its childhood and family history fade away.
A United Cricket Community Pays Respects
Kohli was far from alone. The entire Indian cricket fraternity, spanning men’s and women’s teams, past and present, came together to honour the late actor.
- Virender Sehwag shared a classic photo with the caption, “Rest in peace, Dharam Paa. Your movies were our weekend joy.”
- Harbhajan Singh remembered him as a “true gentleman of the industry and a national treasure.”
- Shikhar Dhawan led emotional tributes from his peers, calling him an “eternal inspiration.”
- Deepti Sharma and Kedar Jadhav also shared their condolences, highlighting his impact on their own families .
Even the legendary Sachin Tendulkar recalled a personal meeting, describing Dharmendra’s “warmth and infectious energy” as qualities that left a lasting impression . This outpouring from such a diverse group underscores that Dharmendra’s influence was truly pan-Indian and inter-generational.
IPL Teams Honour a True Icon
The tributes weren’t limited to individual players. The Indian Premier League (IPL), India’s biggest sporting spectacle, also paused to pay its respects. Several franchises, including the Gujarat Titans, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Punjab Kings, posted official statements and images on their social media handles, honouring the “true icon who inspired everyone” [[30], [31]].
For a league that often blends sport with entertainment, this gesture was a fitting acknowledgment of a man who was a cornerstone of that very blend in Indian culture. It’s a powerful reminder that in India, cricket and cinema are the twin pillars of popular culture, and the loss of a giant in one world is deeply felt in the other.
Why Dharam Ji’s Legacy Resonates with Cricket
So, why did a Bollywood actor’s passing move cricketers so profoundly? The answer lies in the shared DNA of Indian stardom and national pride. Both cricket and Bollywood are massive, unifying forces in the country. Stars from both fields are household names, their lives and careers followed with a mix of admiration and personal connection by the public.
Dharmendra represented a golden era of simplicity, heroism, and family values—themes that also underpin the narrative of many Indian cricketing heroes. His on-screen persona of the righteous, strong, yet humble man is a character that fans have often projected onto their favourite cricketers. This deep cultural overlap explains the genuine sense of personal loss expressed by the sporting community .
For more on the cultural impact of Indian sports icons, see our feature on [INTERNAL_LINK:cricket-legends-who-shaped-indian-culture].
Final Thoughts: A Legend Forever
The heartfelt tributes from Virat Kohli and his fellow cricketers are more than just social media posts; they are a cultural barometer. They show that Dharmendra’s legacy wasn’t confined to film reels and box office records. He was a part of the fabric of everyday Indian life. His death is not just a loss for cinema but for the nation’s collective memory. As the cricket world unites in grief, it’s clear that Dharam Ji’s legend, much like the enduring appeal of the sport he loved, will live on for generations to come.