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Sholay's Tragic Loss: 3 of 6 Legendary Stars Gone as Director Remembers

Director Ramesh Sippy recently reflected on the lasting legacy of Sholay during a special IFFI session. He emotionally noted that three of the film's six main actors have now passed away. Hema Malini shared a heartfelt tribute describing Dharmendra as her everything and constant support. The legendary actor had been battling health issues before his recent passing at age 87.

Key Points: Ramesh Sippy Remembers Dharmendra Sholay Co-Stars Loss

  • Ramesh Sippy spoke at IFFI's 50 years of Sholay tribute session
  • He revealed three main Sholay actors have now passed away
  • Hema Malini shared emotional tribute to her late husband Dharmendra
  • Dharmendra was hospitalized before passing away after long illness
2 min read

Director Ramesh Sippy misses late Dharmendra, says 3 out of 6 great actors of Sholay are no more

Director Ramesh Sippy reveals 3 of Sholay's 6 main actors have passed away, remembering Dharmendra at IFFI's 50-year Sholay tribute session.

"Three out of six great actors of Sholay – Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, and now Dharmendra – are no more. We definitely miss them. - Ramesh Sippy"

Mumbai Nov 27

Director Ramesh Sippy, the man behind the cult classic Sholay, on the 27th of November spoke about Bollywood’s Veeru, aka the late superstar Dharmendra.

The filmmaker spoke at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on Thursday at a session that was titled ‘50 years of Sholay: Why Sholay still resonates’.

Remembering Dharmendra, Ramesh said, “Three out of six great actors of Sholay – Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, and now Dharmendra – are no more. We definitely miss them.” For the uninitiated, the late superstar passed away on November 24, leaving behind a legacy of 60 years in the Bollywood industry.

On November 27, Dharmendra’s wife and actress Hema Malini took to her social media account in expressing her grief. She wrote, “Dharam ji was many things to me. Loving husband, adoring father of our two girls, Esha & Ahaana, friend, philosopher, guide, poet, my ‘go to’ person in all times of need – in fact, he was everything to me! And always has been through good times and bad. He endeared himself to all my family members with his easy, friendly ways, always showing affection and interest in all of them.”

She added, “As a public personality, his talent, his humility in spite of his popularity, and his universal appeal set him apart as a unique icon unequalled among all the legends. His enduring fame and achievements in the film industry will last forever. My personal loss is indescribable, and the vacuum created is something that will last through the rest of my life. After years of togetherness, I am left with myriad memories to relive the many special moments…”

The actor had been keeping unwell for quite some time. He was admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital in mid-November and was on a ventilator. He was later discharged, and the treatments continued at home.

Talking about Sholay, the movie starred Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, Jaya Bachchan and Hema Malini in the lead. The movie that was released in 1975 is considered to be one of the most iconic movies of all time.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Sholay will remain eternal! But it's heartbreaking to see the legends leaving us one by one. Dharmendra ji's comic timing in Sholay was just perfect. Today's actors should learn from these masters.
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Aman W
While I respect the sentiment, I wish we could celebrate these legends while they're still with us. We lost so many greats this year - it's a wake-up call to appreciate our living legends more.
S
Sarah B
As someone who discovered Bollywood later in life, Sholay was my introduction to Indian cinema. Dharmendra's performance was so natural and charismatic. The film truly stands the test of time across cultures.
V
Vikram M
Hema Malini ji's tribute brought tears to my eyes. 50 years of Sholay and it still feels fresh. The entire cast was magical - each actor brought something unique to the table. These are the films that made Indian cinema proud worldwide.
M
Michael C
Watched Sholay during a film festival in London - the theater was packed! Dharmendra's energy was incredible. It's amazing how a film from 1975 can still connect with global audiences. True cinematic masterpiece.

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