Kareena Kapoor Khan shares emotional tribute as industry mourns Dharmendra’s passing
Veteran actor Dharmendra’s death at the age of 89 has prompted an outpouring of tributes across the film fraternity, with actress Kareena Kapoor Khan joining Bollywood in remembering the legendary star. The actress shared two rare monochrome photographs featuring Dharmendra and her grandfather, the iconic filmmaker and actor Raj Kapoor, celebrating their legacy and enduring bond in Hindi cinema.
A heartfelt tribute through vintage memories
Kareena posted the first image on Instagram Stories, showing the two cinema greats embracing warmly. She accompanied the photograph with a simple heart symbol, letting the image speak for itself. In the second picture, Dharmendra and Raj Kapoor are seen exchanging smiles in a moment of camaraderie, which Kareena captioned: “Forever in power.”
The choice of images reflects the Kapoor family’s long-standing association with Dharmendra, whose career spanned more than six decades and intersected with multiple eras and dynasties of Indian cinema.
Context: Dharmendra’s enduring cinematic legacy
Dharmendra, born in Punjab in 1935, entered films after winning a nationwide talent hunt. He soon became one of Bollywood’s most admired stars, known for his versatility across romance, action, comedy, and family dramas.
His landmark performances include:
- Phool Aur Patthar
- Sholay (as the unforgettable Veeru)
- Chupke Chupke
- Yaadon Ki Baaraat
- Seeta Aur Geeta
- Pratiggya
In his later years, he appeared in acclaimed titles such as:
- Life in a... Metro
- Johnny Gaddaar
- Apne
- Yamla Pagla Deewana series
- Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
Dharmendra, a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, remains regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most beloved and influential figures. His final screen appearance will be in Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’, to be released posthumously.
Raj Kapoor’s cinematic heritage and its emotional resonance
Kareena’s tribute also revives memories of Raj Kapoor, one of the most celebrated filmmakers in Indian history. Often referred to as “The Greatest Showman of Indian Cinema,” he shaped storytelling with films such as Awaara, Shree 420, and Mera Naam Joker. His Chaplin-inspired performances earned global acclaim, with Time magazine ranking his Awaara portrayal among the greatest in world cinema.
The image of both icons together represents two pillars of Indian film history — their legacies now joined in remembrance.
Industry buzz: Kapoor family in spotlight
Kareena is currently garnering attention for “Dining with the Kapoors,” a Netflix special celebrating the Kapoor family heritage. The gathering coincided with what would have been Raj Kapoor’s 100th birth anniversary, adding further poignance to her tribute to Dharmendra.
The special features appearances from:
- Ranbir Kapoor
- Karisma Kapoor
- Armaan Jain
- Other Kapoor family members
Moments from the show highlight warmth, humour, food traditions, and generational storytelling.
Conclusion
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s tribute reflects the emotional weight felt across Bollywood following Dharmendra’s passing. By choosing rare archival photographs, she honoured not only the late legend but also the shared cinematic history of two of the industry’s most influential families. As film personalities and admirers continue to pay respects, Dharmendra’s cultural imprint remains unmistakably etched in Bollywood’s identity.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
Dharmendra’s passing marks a defining moment in Indian cinema’s collective memory. Kareena Kapoor’s tribute serves as a reminder of how intertwined Bollywood’s creative legacies are, and how its greatest icons continue to unite generations through their artistry, warmth, and humanity. As the industry reflects on his contributions, Dharmendra’s presence will remain alive in the stories, performances, and emotions he gave to the screen — a legacy that time cannot dim.