Priyanka Chopra Jonas pens emotional note for Dharmendra, recalls early career support: “True blue Hindi film hero”

November 24, 2025 - 6:34 PM IST

Priyanka Chopra Jonas joined the growing list of actors mourning the loss of Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89 at his Mumbai residence. The veteran star died 12 days after being discharged from Breach Candy Hospital, where he was admitted in late October following complaints of breathlessness. He would have turned 90 on December 8.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas pens emotional note for Dharmendra, recalls early career support: “True blue Hindi film hero”

In an emotional Instagram post, Chopra reflected on her earliest memories of entering the film industry and the role Dharmendra and his family played in shaping her first steps in Hindi cinema. “In the year 2001, my first signing amount in the movies came from Vijayta Films,” she wrote, recalling her initial days as a newcomer in Mumbai.

“One of the first Hindi movies I ever shot was under his banner, with his eldest son. Him and his family made me feel welcome in the industry, at a time when no one knew me,” she added. Chopra noted that the warmth she received from the Deols stayed with her, describing it as a rare quality in an industry that can be unforgiving to outsiders.

The actor, who has worked with Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol on several projects, said Dharmendra’s passing felt personal. “Some people leave behind films, some leave behind feelings. He has left us with both,” she wrote, calling his presence “magnetic” and his smile “charismatic.”

Chopra also reflected on Dharmendra’s journey from a small town to becoming one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved stars. “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.”

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A post shared by Priyanka (@priyankachopra)

She ended her tribute by extending condolences to the Deol family and writing, “Rest in paradise, Dharamji. Om Shanti.”

Dharmendra was last seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. Hours before news of his death surfaced online, Maddock Films unveiled his character poster from their upcoming film Ikkis.

Also Read: Amit Shah honours Dharmendra, calls his death an ‘irreparable loss’ to Indian cinema