Esha Deol remembers dad Dharmendra on his first birth anniversary post demise; promises to maintain his legacy: "Us through all our lifetimes"

Esha Deol with her father and late actor Dharmendra

Today, December 8 marks the first birth anniversary of legendary actor Dharmendra, who recently passed away on November 24, 2025 after suffering from a long health battle. His daughter Esha Deol penned an emotional long note as she remembered her dad on what would have been his 90th birthday.

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Esha shared several photos of the father-daughter duo and wrote a heartwarming message that read, "To my darling Papa, Our pact, the strongest bond . "us" through all our lifetimes, all the realms and beyond ….. We are always together papa . Be it heaven or earth . We are one . For now I have very tenderly, carefully & preciously tucked you in my heart … deep deep inside to carry on with me for the rest of this lifetime."

Talking about her precious memories with him, Esha continued, "The magical precious memories….. life lessons, the teachings, the guidance, the warmth, the unconditional love, the dignity and the strength you have given me as your daughter cannot be replaced or matched by any other. I so painfully miss you papa … your warm protective hugs that felt like the cosiest blanket, holding your soft yet strong hands which had unspoken messages & your voice calling out my name that followed with endless conversations, laughter & shayaris. Your motto “always be humble, be happy, healthy & strong."

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A post shared by ESHA DHARMENDRA DEOL (@imeshadeol)

Esha further mentioned that she promises to take forward Dharmednra's legacy. "I promise to continue your legacy with pride & respect. And I will try my best to spread your love to the millions who love you as I do. I love you papa. Your darling daughter, Your Esha , your Bittu."

Also read: How Dharmendra, the eternal He-Man, redefined Bollywood masculinity

Esha Deol is the daughter of actors Dharmendra and Hema Malini.

Dharmendra, popular known as the 'He-Man' of India, was born on December 8, 1935 in Punjab's Nasrali.

Dharmendra passed away at 89, after battling prolong health issues. Few days before his demise, he was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after experiencing respiratory difficulties and breathlessness and as per reports he was also on ventilator. However, he was discharged later and was seeking treatment at his home until he breathed his last on November 24. It was indeed a shocking news for fans, family and industry insiders alike.