Priyanka Chopra pays heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra after his demise, says 'my first signing amount in the movies came from his production house'

Dharmendra, one of Bollywood's most beloved stars, died on November 24 at the age of 89, a few weeks before turning 90. Dharmendra, most commonly known as the "He-Man" of Hindi cinema, was more than just a performer; he was a representation of kindness, modesty, and generosity.

Priyanka Chopra shared a particularly emotional memory of the late actor and his family among the heartfelt tributes that were flooding in.

She posted a throwback photograph from an award function with Dharmendra and wrote, “In the year 2001, my first signing amount in the movies came from Vijayta Films. 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 continued, “Very few people are capable of that kind of warmth and grace, towards a complete newcomer, who didn’t know anyone in Mumbai. I have known the Deol family since the beginning of my career. I’ve worked in multiple movies with Sunny and Bobby. This feels personal, and I know I share that feeling with many others in the world.”

Reflecting on Dharmendra’s magnetic presence, Priyanka added, “Some people leave behind films, some leave behind feelings. He has left us with both. His presence was magnetic. He filled up a frame with his smile and charisma like only he could. This is a big loss for cinema, but his legacy is permanent. 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.”