THE MAN WHO TAUGHT INDIA TO LOVE GENTLY

End of an era, a massive mega star ... he wasn't only a star, but a feeling

- BY MANJUSHA RADHAKRISHNAN

The man who taught generations how to love gently — who made affection dignified and romance feel safe — is gone. Dharmendra, Bollywood’s original romantic leading man, has died at the age of 89.

He didn’t need grand declarations or theatrics. He simply arrived, looked into the camera, and made millions believe in tenderness. News of his passing broke yesterday afternoon. There was no chaos, no spectacle — just the quiet acceptance that cinema had lost one of its purest hearts.

KARAN JOHAR’S TRIBUTE

Filmmaker Karan Johar, who directed him in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani, confirmed the loss in a deeply personal tribute: “It’s the end of an era, a massive mega star, the embodiment of a hero in mainstream cinema, incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence. He only had immense love and positivity for everyone ... his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe ....