Dharmendra’s passing on November 24 at the age of 89 left an irreplaceable void in Indian cinema, but what stirred his fans even more was the family’s decision to hold a private funeral. Now, filmmaker Hamad Al Reyami who recently met Hema Malini during the mourning period has revealed why the legendary actor’s final rites were kept away from public view.
Sharing a heartfelt note on Instagram, Al Reyami wrote that Hema Malini opened up about the deeply painful final weeks of her husband’s life. According to him, she spoke in a trembling voice about how Dharmendra’s last days were “cruel, painful and almost unbearable to witness.” The actor had been hospitalised on November 10 and, though discharged later, continued to battle severe health complications at home. Despite the family’s care and an ICU-like setup arranged at home, his condition deteriorated rapidly.
Hema expressed regret that fans could not see Dharmendra one last time, but explained that the family could not bear to expose him in such a weak state. She reportedly said that throughout his life, Dharmendra never wanted anyone to see him vulnerable or suffering. Even in illness, he hid his pain from relatives. After his passing, the family felt it was their duty to honour that wish.
Hema shared emotional memories as well, recalling how Dharmendra always postponed publishing his poetry, insisting he needed to “finish a few more poems first.” She lamented that strangers would now write about him while many of his own words remained unseen.
Dharmendra was cremated in Mumbai on November 25, with industry greats including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan attending. A prayer meet titled “Celebration of Life” was held days later, drawing friends, colleagues, and admirers who gathered to honour the beloved superstar’s legacy.
Dharmendra’s charisma and contribution to Indian cinema remain immortal, even as his final days stay cloaked in the quiet dignity he always preferred.
