Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 31: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan was visibly emotional on the sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati during a heartfelt tribute to Bollywood icon Dharmendra. The episode opened with a special segment honoring the legendary actor, leaving Bachchan teary-eyed as he spoke about his longtime friend, family member, and inspiration.

Recalling Dharmendra’s final film, Ikkis, Bachchan said, “The film Ikkis is the last precious memento for us, left behind for millions. An artist wants to practice his art till his last breath, and this is exactly what my friend, my family, and my idol, Mr. Dharmendra Deol, did.” His voice softened as he added, “Mr. Dharam was not just a person. He was a feeling, and a feeling never lets you go. It becomes a memory, a blessing that keeps you going.”

Bachchan also reminisced about their iconic on-screen friendship in Sholay. Sharing a behind-the-scenes memory, he said, “We were shooting in Bangalore. He had what I call a physical quality — he was a wrestler, a hero. In the death scene, the agony you saw on screen was real because of the way he held me so tightly that the pain turned into natural acting.”

Adding to the tribute, Ikkis director Sriram Raghavan praised Dharmendra, saying, “I am very blessed that he is working in my last film and that his last film showcases him extraordinarily well.” Actor Jaideep Ahlawat, also part of the film, said, “I was lucky to have most of my scenes with him. On set, it never felt like a superstar was sitting with us; he felt like family.”

Even after 50 years since Sholay, the camaraderie between Amitabh’s Jai and Dharmendra’s Veeru remains legendary. Their off-screen friendship continues to be celebrated, making them one of Indian cinema’s most cherished duos.