Smriti Irani remembers how Dharmendra once stepped in to guide her early political journey

Smriti Irani has joined people across the country in remembering Dharmendra, whose death has left an unmistakable void in the film world and beyond. Her tribute stood out for its personal tone, as she revisited a memory from the early days of her political journey, long before she held national office.

The former Union Minister posted a black and white photograph of Dharmendra on Instagram. The picture showed him sitting beside a car in a relaxed moment. Smriti described him not only as the screen’s He-Man but as someone whose nature remained steady and warm even away from the arc lights.

In her note, she wrote that she first approached Dharmendra when she was 27, unsure of how to navigate her first election campaign. She recalled asking him, “Could you please help me with my electoral campaign, for this is my first and I barely know what to do?”

According to her, Dharmendra responded without hesitation. “Puttar I’ll be there,” he told her. She remembered how he arrived in Paharganj and Chandni Chowk, where crowds gathered instantly. People held on to every word he spoke. Smriti wrote that he came with the affection of an elder guiding someone younger who needed support.

She added that his simplicity surprised her at the time, even though his generosity was widely known in the industry. She said he met every compliment with a shy smile and carried himself with ease despite his stature.

Smriti also wrote about the depth of her loss, saying it feels personal. She remembered him as someone strong in presence yet gentle in spirit, a combination that made people connect with him easily.

Before stepping into politics in 2003, Smriti Irani was one of television’s most recognisable faces. She became a household name as Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. She has now returned to the entertainment space with the announcement of the show’s new season.