At a recent event in Kolkata, a simple moment transformed into one of the evening’s most memorable highlights when Monali Thakur stepped onto the stage to honour the late superstar Dharmendra, who passed away at 89 earlier this week.
Monali Thakur pays tribute to Dharmendra
A video from the event has been going viral on social media, showing Monali rendering the timeless classic Aap Ki Nazron Ne Samjha from Dharmendra’s 1962 movie Anpadh with remarkable ease and sincerity. Her voice, steady yet full of feeling, breathed new life into the beloved melody. The video showed each line carrying a quiet reverence, echoing her admiration for the legendary actor. As the song unfolded, it almost felt like the golden era of Hindi cinema had briefly returned, reminding the audience of the warmth, innocence, and charm Dharmendra Ji brought to the screen.
There were no grand lights, no dramatic cues, just Monali, standing under the warm glow of the stage, letting her voice carry the emotion of the moment. What unfolded was a tribute that drew the entire room into a shared sense of nostalgia and respect.
The performance radiated authenticity and emotional depth. The audience, visibly moved, responded with an attentive stillness—an unspoken acknowledgment of the moment’s significance. A few recorded the performance, while others let themselves sink into the melody.
The simplicity of the setup, the quietness of the crowd, and the honesty in Monali’s delivery created a space where everyone could feel Dharmendra`s legacy without a single word spoken.
Her musical homage celebrated Dharmendra exactly the way fans remember him: with warmth, sincerity, and a timeless sense of grace. Monali’s tribute felt beautifully fitting, honouring a legend whose presence continues to inspire generations.
Dharmendra dies at 89
Veteran actor Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved and enduring icons, passed away on Monday, November 24. He was 89.
Affectionately known as the “He-Man” of Bollywood, Dharmendra`s career spanned over six decades, during which he appeared in more than 250 films across genres — from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies and timeless romances.
Born Dharam Singh Deol in Punjab in 1935, Dharmendra made his debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960). He rose to fame with hits such as Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Anupama (1966), and Bandini (1963), establishing himself as a versatile performer. His unforgettable pairing with Hema Malini on and off-screen became legendary.
Among his most celebrated works are Sholay (1975), Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973), Satyakam (1969), and Seeta Aur Geeta (1972).
He is survived by his first wife, Prakash Kaur; sons Sunny and Bobby Deol; daughters Vijeta and Ajeta; his second wife, Hema Malini; and their daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol.