"I have very tenderly, carefully and preciously tucked you in my heart"
Esha Deol posted an emotional tribute to her late father, Dharmendra, on what would have been his 90th birthday.
The iconic actor passed away on November 24, 2025.
Esha took to Instagram to post a series of photographs with her late father, alongside a heartfelt note reflecting on their bond and the memories they shared.
She wrote: “To my darling Papa. Our pact, the strongest bond. ‘Us’ through all our lifetimes, all the realms and beyond… We are always together, Papa.
“Be it heaven or earth. We are one.
“For now, I have very tenderly, carefully and preciously tucked you in my heart… deep, deep inside to carry on with me for the rest of this lifetime.”
She went on to reflect on the lessons and affection she received from him throughout her life:
“The magical, precious memories… life lessons, the teachings, the guidance, the warmth, the unconditional love, the dignity and the strength you have given me as your daughter cannot be replaced or matched by any other.
“I so painfully miss you, Papa… your warm protective hugs that felt like the cosiest blanket, holding your soft yet strong hands which had unspoken messages, and your voice calling out my name that followed with endless conversations, laughter and shayaris.”
Concluding her tribute, Esha promised to uphold her father’s values and honour his memory:
“Your motto, ‘always be humble, be happy, healthy and strong’, I promise to continue your legacy with pride and respect.
“And I will try my best to spread your love to the millions who love you as I do.”
“I love you, Papa. Your darling daughter, your Esha, your Bittu.”
In early November, Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital.
False reports soon circulated that he had died, however, Esha Deol and Hema Malini refuted the claims.
Dharmendra later died at his family home in Juhu.
His funeral was held at Pawan Hans Crematorium, where family, friends and leading figures from the film industry gathered to pay their final respects. Amitabh Bachchan, Govinda, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan were among the actors who attended.
Widely regarded as one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring stars, Dharmendra’s career spanned decades and left a lasting impact on Indian cinema.
His daughter’s tribute now offers a personal glimpse into the man behind the screen, remembered not only for his towering legacy but for his warmth as a father.
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