The atmosphere on the sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati turned solemn and emotional as the show opened with a moving tribute to veteran actor Dharmendra, fondly hailed as Indian cinema’s original “He-Man”.
Host Amitabh Bachchan reflected on his decades-long association with Dharmendra, speaking of him not merely as a co-actor but as family. The moment became deeply poignant as Bachchan recalled Dharmendra’s final film, Ikkis, describing it as a treasured legacy for generations of cinema lovers.
“Ikkis is the last precious memento he has left behind for millions. An artist wishes to practise his art till his final breath, and that is exactly what my friend, my family, my idol, Mr Dharmendra Deol did,” Bachchan said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Struggling to hold back tears, he added, “He was not just a person, he was a feeling. And a feeling never leaves you—it stays with you as a memory and a blessing.”
Director Sriram Raghavan, who worked with Dharmendra on Ikkis, also paid tribute, calling the collaboration a privilege. “I feel truly blessed that he worked in my film. His last performance was something he was exceptionally good at,” Raghavan said.
Actor Jaideep Ahlawat shared similar sentiments, recalling Dharmendra’s warmth and humility on set. “I was lucky to share most of my scenes with him. It never felt like a superstar was with us—he felt like family,” he said.
Bachchan also revisited one of their most iconic moments from Sholay, recalling the intense death scene they shot in Bengaluru. “He had a powerful physical presence—a true hero, almost like a wrestler. The pain seen on screen was real because of the way he held me so tightly. That agony naturally translated into the performance,” he remembered.
The heartfelt tribute turned the KBC stage into a space of quiet reverence, celebrating Dharmendra’s lasting contribution to Indian cinema. As Amitabh Bachchan fought back tears, the moment underscored a timeless truth—legends may leave the screen, but their legacy and the emotions they evoke live on forever.
