The ashes of Bollywood icon Dharmendra were solemnly immersed in the holy Ganga River at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar on Wednesday, according to the family’s priest. The veteran performer, fondly remembered as the “He-Man” of Indian cinema, had passed away on November 24 at the age of 89.
Efforts to shield the ceremony from public and media scrutiny were evident, as noted by family priest Sandeep Parashar Shrotriya in a statement to PTI. The pre-ritual observances unfolded discreetly at a nearby private hotel before the group proceeded to the revered ghat.
Shrotriya recounted how Dharmendra’s grandson, Karan Deol—son of actor Sunny Deol—arrived at the site on a two-wheeler alongside other relatives to carry out the immersion rites. Although Sunny Deol expressed a desire to lead the proceedings personally, security concerns about potential crowds led to Karan stepping in to fulfill the duties.
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Sunny and his brother, Bobby Deol, had traveled to Haridwar the previous day, Tuesday. The immersion, originally scheduled then, was delayed by a few hours to accommodate a late-arriving family member.
Tensions erupted during the intimate ritual when a handful of photographers began capturing footage of the ashes’ immersion. In a moment of raw emotion, Sunny Deol confronted them sharply, his voice laced with frustration: “Have you people sold your shame? You want money? How much money do you want?”
Since Dharmendra’s death, the Deol family has observed a respectful quietude, avoiding public commentary. Just last week, they hosted a poignant “Celebration of Life” prayer meet in Mumbai, drawing an array of Bollywood luminaries to honor the legend.
Born Dharam Singh Deol in Punjab in 1935, Dharmendra captivated audiences over six decades with roles in over 300 films. Renowned for his range spanning action-packed thrillers, heartfelt romances, and lighthearted comedies, his timeless contributions include blockbusters like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Anupama, and Seeta Aur Geeta.
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