Haridwar

The ashes of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra were immersed at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar on Wednesday, marking an emotional farewell to one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring icons. Priest Rohit Shrotriya, who conducted the rituals, confirmed that the immersion was performed by Dharmendra’s grandson Karan Deol.

Sharing details with ANI, Shrotriya said, “The family came here to perform the immersion at Har Ki Pauri. Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol could not be present due to some circumstances, so Dharmendra ji’s grandson Karan performed the immersion. The ‘pind daan’ rituals were also completed. Both Sunny Deol’s and Bobby Deol’s families took part in the ceremonies.” He added that some pre-rituals were conducted earlier at a private hotel.

The beloved actor — often referred to as the ‘He-Man’ of Indian cinema — had been ailing for some time. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on November 10 following a health decline, but was discharged two days later for home care. Dharmendra passed away on November 24.

He is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur; his second wife, actor Hema Malini; and his six children — Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta and Ajeita from his first marriage, as well as Esha Deol and Ahana Deol from his second marriage.

In a career spanning more than six decades, Dharmendra delivered numerous classics including Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, Ayee Milan Ki Bela, and Anupama. His charm, screen presence and versatility made him one of the most loved figures in Indian cinema.

To honour his memory, the family held a prayer ceremony titled “Celebration of Life” on November 27 at Taj Lands End in Bandra, Mumbai. Members of the Deol family — including Sunny, Bobby and Karan — thanked attendees with folded hands for their support, as a musical tribute paid homage to the actor’s legacy. Celebrities such as Salman Khan, Rekha, Karan Johar, Akshay Kumar, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan were among those who attended.

READ MORE: When neighbours saved my family and firmed my faith in inclusive India

Dharmendra’s passing has drawn tributes from across the country, with fans and colleagues remembering him not only as a gifted performer but as a cultural icon who inspired generations.