The passing of the iconic Dharmendra on November 24, 2025, has left a void in the hearts of millions across India and the world. While he is celebrated for his heroic roles in Bollywood, a charming anecdote from a few years ago offers a glimpse into his warm, humble, and deeply patriotic nature. This story? His unforgettable meeting with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on a flight.
Table of Contents
- A Legend Departs: Dharmendra’s Final Farewell
- The Chance Encounter: Dharmendra Meets Sachin Tendulkar
- Dharmendra’s Legacy Beyond the Silver Screen
- The Dharmendra Family Dynasty
- Final Thoughts: A Life Well-Lived
- Sources
A Legend Departs: Dharmendra’s Final Farewell
After a period of declining health that saw the legendary actor admitted to a Mumbai hospital for respiratory issues earlier in November, Dharmendra passed away peacefully at his Juhu residence at the age of 89 . His death, attributed to age-related health complications, marks the end of an era in Indian cinema . The news has sent shockwaves through the film fraternity and his countless fans, all mourning the loss of the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’ .
The Chance Encounter: Dharmendra Meets Sachin Tendulkar
Back in December 2021, a photo surfaced on social media that captured the imagination of the nation. It was a picture of two of India’s greatest icons—Dharmendra and Sachin Tendulkar—sitting side by side on a commercial flight . The actor, ever the gentleman, shared the image with a heartfelt caption that revealed his immense respect for the cricketer.
He wrote, “Desh ke gauravshaali Sachin se aaj achanak mulakaat ho gayi… Itna pyara hai ki mera dil kahta hai, ‘mera pyaara beta'” (I had a sudden meeting today with Sachin, the pride of the nation… He is so dear to me that my heart calls him ‘my dear son’) . This simple, affectionate gesture showcased a side of Dharmendra that went beyond his on-screen persona—a man of profound admiration for those who brought glory to India.
For fans, this meeting was more than just a celebrity sighting; it was a powerful symbol of the deep connection between two pillars of Indian culture: cinema and cricket. You can read more about other fascinating crossovers in our piece on [INTERNAL_LINK:bollywood-and-cricket-collaborations].
Dharmendra’s Legacy Beyond the Silver Screen
While his filmography boasts over 200 movies, including classics like Sholay and Satyakam, Dharmendra’s legacy is multifaceted. He was a passionate cricket enthusiast, a trait shared by many in the film industry. His love for the sport was never just a passive interest; it was a genuine affection for the game and its heroes, as evidenced by his public admiration for Tendulkar.
His contribution to Indian cinema has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. His influence can be seen not just in his own work but in the careers of his children who followed in his footsteps. To understand the full scope of his cinematic impact, the Encyclopaedia Britannica offers a detailed account of his career.
The Dharmendra Family Dynasty
The Dharmendra family is one of Bollywood’s most prominent clans. From his first marriage to Prakash Kaur, he has four children: actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta and Ajeita. His second marriage, to the legendary actress and dancer Hema Malini, gave him two more daughters: actress Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, a trained Odissi dancer .
This sprawling family, now spanning multiple generations with grandchildren like Radhya and Miraya (Esha’s daughters), continues to be a significant presence in the entertainment world. Their collective body of work is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Deol-Malini legacy .
Final Thoughts: A Life Well-Lived
The story of Dharmendra‘s meeting with Sachin Tendulkar is a perfect microcosm of the man himself—graceful, respectful, and full of love for his country. As we bid a final farewell to this cinematic giant, we remember not just his powerful on-screen presence, but also his gentle heart and the indelible mark he left on Indian popular culture. His passing is a moment for the nation to reflect on a life that was, indeed, exceptionally well-lived.