Following the death of legendary Indian actor Dharmendra on Monday former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif paid a moving tribute to the Bollywood star calling him a global legend. Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai on Monday. “Dharmendra ji was a legendary hero and Sholay remains an all-time classic. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy across the subcontinent and was immensely popular in Pakistan as well. My deepest condolences” Latif told IANS news agency. After experiencing difficulty breathing Dharmendra 89 was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai and reportedly placed on a ventilator. The veteran actor died on Monday despite showing signs of recovery and being discharged to continue his recuperation at his Juhu home. Dharmendra born in Punjab in 1935 is one of the longest-lasting stars in Indian cinema. In the late 1950s Filmfare magazine and Bimal Roy Productions began a nationwide search for new actors and actresses for Hindi films. This marked the start of his film career. He entered the contest and won in 1958. His good looks and natural charm made him stand out immediately. Years later the same competition would introduce another star Rajesh Khanna into the industry. Dharmendras rise was rapid. He was popular in all types of films from romance to action to comedy because he was so emotional versatile and magnetic on screen. Phool Aur Patthar made him a star and Sholay made him famous. His performance as the lovable mischievous Veeru remains one of the most celebrated in Hindi cinema.  Over a career spanning more than six decades Dharmendra was awarded the Padma Bhushan Indias third-highest civilian honour for his work. Dharmendra leaves behind a legacy in films that has shaped generations and a fan base that crosses borders which few actors have ever matched. Latif turned out in 37 Tests and 166 ODIs for Pakistan in his career. He scored 1381 Test runs at an average of 28.77 with 1 century and 7 fifties and 1709 runs in ODIs with 3 fifties. He led Pakistan in 6 Tests and 25 ODIs in his career. Out of 25 ODIs he won 13 matches and lost 12.