Salim Khan's 90th birthday turns heartbreaking with the passing of Dharmendra: 'He's like a family member….'

Dharmendra, the iconic Bollywood star and one of the Hindi film industry's most celebrated actors, reportedly passed away today, November 24. The veteran actor, who was discharged from Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month, was recovering at home. However, his condition worsened this morning, leading to an ambulance being seen at his Juhu residence.

While the family has not yet released an official statement, his daughter Esha Deol and wife Hema Malini were seen at the Pawan Hans Crematorium, followed by Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Salman Khan. Salim Khan, the writer of "Sholay" and Salman's father, who is celebrating his 90th birthday today, also attended the funeral to pay his respects.

Salim Khan talks about Dharmendra

Rewinding to 1998, Dharmendra and Salim Khan joined forces for the film "Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya," featuring Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan, and Kajol. A behind-the-scenes video offers insight into Salim Khan's reflections on his bond with Dharmendra.

In the clip, Salim ji shares, Dharam ji se mera bohot hi purana association hai, 1958-1959 se. Both of us had come together, both of us have seen a lot of struggle. Aur bohot si cheezein common bhi hain. Aur, ab kya kahun ki usme se kaun si ek major cheez common hai. Toh bohot si cheezein common hain. He's a wonderful person and jab bhi inko khayal aaya ki iss film mein kis ko liya jaaye toh inko pehla khayal Dharam ji ka hi aaya. He's like a family member and like an elder brother to us. That's all I can say about him.

Salim Khan turns 90 today

As Salim Khan celebrates his 90th birthday, the industry mourns the loss of Dharmendra, who passed away just weeks before his own 90th birthday.

Dharmendra, had he lived, would have celebrated his 90th birthday on December 8th. As the Deol family prepares an official statement, we send them our heartfelt wishes for peace and strength.