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Sanjay Dutt pens emotional tribute to father Sunil Dutt on 20th death anniversary: you showed me how to stand tall...

Sanjay Dutt remembered his late father Sunil Dutt with an emotional tribute, marking 20 years since his passing. The touching post honoured Sunil Dutt’s enduring legacy as both a cinematic legend and a compassionate public figure.
May 25, 2025 / 16:31 IST
Sanjay Dutt remembers dad Sunil Dutt

Legendary actor and politician Sunil Dutt passed away 20 years ago, and his son Sanjay Dutt paid a heartfelt homage to him that touched fans of all ages.

Sanjay shared four poignant images on social media: one of him as a child, grinning broadly beside his father, and another of them from their classic movie Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., which is still a beloved depiction of their on-screen friendship. The other two images were from Sunil Dutt's young years.

Sunil Dutt passed away peacefully in his sleep on 25 May 2005 due to a heart attack, at the age of 75.

Though two decades have passed, his legacy as a cinematic icon and humanitarian continues to inspire.

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A post shared by Sanjay Dutt (@duttsanjay)

Sanjay, who has often spoken about the immense influence his father had on his life, penned a heartfelt message alongside the images. “You didn’t just raise me, you showed me how to stand tall when life gets tough, love you dad and miss you everyday,” wrote the actor, who has openly credited his father for being his anchor through personal storms and public scrutiny alike.

This powerful bond was memorably portrayed in the 2018 biopic Sanju, where Sunil’s unwavering support was a central theme.

Joining her brother in remembering their father, Priya Dutt also shared a moving post. Reflecting on Sunil Dutt’s quiet dignity and humility despite his towering presence in both Bollywood and Indian politics, she wrote, “Dad, when you smiled, we knew everything was okay. You were our pillar-- the one person who stood by us, behind us, and guided us to move forward with the right values of humility, gratitude, compassion, and love.”

She further added, “You always taught me that people must remember you by your good work and your good deeds, not by your status or money... You didn’t need that, as you are etched in the hearts of the people whose lives you touched. I feel so proud to be your daughter. I miss you, but you remain with me in all that I do.”

Also Read: Sikandar OTT release: When and where to watch Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna's latest film

Before making his on-screen debut in Railway Platform (1955), Sunil Dutt started his remarkable career as a radio host. But it was his portrayal of Nargis's disobedient son in Mother India (1957) that solidified his legacy in cinema.

He later married Nargis, creating one of the most famous couples in Indian cinema, demonstrating how life imitates art. As a Member of Parliament and Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Dutt was praised for his profound dedication to social causes and was remembered for his humanity in addition to his roles.

Entertainment desk
first published: May 25, 2025 04:30 pm

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