Mumtaz shared her emotional reasons for not attending Dharmendra’s last rites, recalling their deep bond and her hospital visit, saying some farewells are too personal to witness publicly.
Veteran actress Mumtaz has spoken candidly about her decision not to attend the last rites of her longtime friend and He-Man of Indian Cinema, Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025. In an emotional interview, Mumtaz explained that, although she was deeply connected to Dharmendra for decades, she simply “wouldn’t have been able to” be present for the final farewell.
Mumtaz, a cherished star from Bollywood’s golden era, known for her expressive performances in classics such as Khilona, Sachaa Jhutha and Do Raaste, said the news of Dharmendra’s passing profoundly affected her. She recalled visiting him in the hospital when he was on a ventilator, describing the experience as emotionally overwhelming.
“Yes, I went to the hospital. When I went there, I was told that doctors have said that he is on a ventilator – ‘Aap kya dekhengi unko?’ I just said that I would just like to see his glimpse. So, I went inside, saw him, he was looking good at that time as well, while lying down,” she shared during an interview with Vicky Lalwani, underscoring how difficult it would have been for her to witness the final rituals.
The actress paid tribute to Dharmendra not just as a colleague, but as a dear friend whose presence had enriched her life both on and off-screen. Their bond, rooted in mutual respect and shared memories from decades in the film industry, has long been celebrated by fans and peers alike.
While Mumtaz chose not to attend the funeral proceedings, she emphasised that her absence did not lessen her admiration or affection for Dharmendra. Instead, she conveyed that some moments of grief are simply too personal and poignant to bear in public, especially when it means saying goodbye to someone who was like family.
She recalled, “I didn’t go for the last rites. I wouldn’t have been able to see his mortal remains. When Dev sahab passed away… his hotel was near my house and many people rang the bell to call me to meet him, but I said no. He was such a chirpy and lively person, he taught me everything.”
Dharmendra passed away on November 24 after battling illness.
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