Priyanka Chopra’s tribute to Dharmendra feels less like a formal condolence and more like a beautifully written thank-you letter from one generation of cinema to another. In her emotional note, she revisits the earliest chapter of her career—back in 2001—when she was a complete newcomer from Bareilly, stepping into an industry where she knew no one.
Her first signing amount in movies came from Vijayta Films, Dharmendra’s banner, and one of her earliest Hindi film shoots was under his family’s wing. The Deols, she wrote, made her feel welcome long before the world knew her name. She 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. Very few people are capable of that kind of warmth and grace, towards a complete newcomer, from Bareilly, 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. 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. A true blue Hindi film Hero. Rest in paradise, Dharamji. My condolences to the entire Deol family. Om Shanti.”
Her words capture a rare blend of respect and personal history. They highlight Dharmendra not only as a towering cinematic force, but as someone whose warmth extended behind the camera as well. Priyanka’s tribute echoes the journey of countless artists who arrived in Mumbai with dreams and found strength in the examples set by legends like Dharamji.
In sharing this memory, she also reminds fans why Dharmendra’s legacy feels eternal. He wasn’t just a star; he was a feeling—one that lives on in the people he supported, inspired, and lifted. Priyanka’s post stands as a heartfelt reminder that sometimes the biggest heroes aren’t the ones on screen, but the ones who change lives quietly, generously, and forever.