The whole country is mourning the loss of legendary actor Dharmendra, whose passing has sent a wave of grief through the film industry and millions of fans across the world. Among the most emotional tributes was the one penned by his dearest friend and co-star, Amitabh Bachchan—the Jai to Dharmendra’s Veeru—whose bond with him remains one of the most iconic friendships in Indian cinema.
Big B was one of the first to reach the crematorium bidding farewell to the man who stood beside him in some of the most defining moments of their cinematic journey. Their relationship born on film sets, strengthened over decades, and cherished across generations has always symbolised warmth, brotherhood, and genuine affection. Amitabh Bachchan later shared a deeply emotional note on social media remembering him not as a superstar, but as a soul full of humility, earthiness, and love. His words captured a grief too heavy for articulation, yet too heartfelt not to be shared.
He wrote,“… another valiant Giant has left us .. left the arena .. leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound ..
Dharam ji .. 🙏🙏🙏.. the epitome of greatness, ever linked not only for his renowned physical presence, but for the largeness of his heart, and its most endearing simplicity .... he brought with him the earthiness of the village in Punjab he came from, and remained true to its temperament .. unsoiled throughout his glorious career, in a fraternity that witnessed changes every decade ..… the fraternity underwent changes .. not him ..his smile, his charm and his warmth, extending to all that came in his vicinity .. a rarity in the profession .... the air about us swings vacant ..”
The words echo the sentiment of a friend who has lost a brother Jai grieving for his Veeru, not in reel life this time, but in a heartbreaking moment of reality. Their friendship was one that transcended screens: warm, respectful, playful, and deeply rooted in admiration. For fans, it was a bond immortalised in Sholay; for Amitabh, it was a bond etched in life.
As the nation continues to pay tribute, one thing remains clear:
Dharmendra’s warmth, humility, and spirit will forever remain irreplaceable.And today, as Jai mourns Veeru, the world mourns with him.