Ramesh Sippy Remembers Dharmendra: A Veeru Forever in Our Hearts

Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy paid an emotional tribute to Dharmendra at the CII Summit on Tuesday, reflecting on a friendship and collaboration that spanned decades. Speaking during a special session, Sippy said, “Few and far between… we all will find a huge gap. We must be satisfied in seeing him through all his work and knowing a little about him—his simplicity, his large-heartedness, very generous to others… his family will miss him. I am at a loss of words here.”

 

Dharmendra, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 89, shared a bond with Sippy that long predated their work on Sholay. The 1975 blockbuster, which became a cultural phenomenon, immortalized Dharmendra as Veeru, one half of Bollywood’s most beloved duo. His charm, courage, and larger-than-life personality continue to resonate with audiences even decades later.

 

Sippy’s words captured not just the actor’s cinematic achievements but also his generosity and warmth off-screen. Colleagues and fans alike mourned the loss of an actor who was equally iconic for his heart as for his performances.

 

To honor Dharmendra’s legacy, a newly restored 4K version of Sholay is set to release in cinemas on December 12, allowing audiences to relive the magic of one of India’s most influential films. For many, it will be a chance to revisit Veeru’s daring stunts, memorable dialogues, and enduring friendship with Jai, and to celebrate Dharmendra’s extraordinary contribution to cinema.

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