'Waited 30 minutes': Mumtaz couldn't meet Dharmendra one last time
What's the story
Veteran actor Mumtaz, who starred with Dharmendra in Jheel Ke Us Paar (1973) and Loafer (1973), recently opened up about her fond memories with the late superstar. In a recent interview with ETimes, she spoke about their close bond, his kind heart, and her pain at not being able to see him one last time. She also recalled the last time they met was in 2021 at his residence.
Disappointment
Mumtaz couldn't meet Dharmendra at Breach Candy Hospital
Mumtaz revealed that she went to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital to see Dharmendra, who was admitted after complaining of breathlessness. "I went to see him at the hospital, but the staff told me he was on the ventilator and no one was allowed to meet him." "I sat there for 30 minutes hoping I might still get to see him but I couldn't. I left without meeting him."
Condolences
Mumtaz expressed condolences for Dharmendra's family
Mumtaz also expressed her condolences to Dharmendra's wife, actor Hema Malini. "I feel sorry for his family, and for Hema ji. She was always devoted to him. She must be feeling this loss very deeply." "She was truly in love with him," she said. Malini also addressed the loss for the first time on Thursday. She posted several unreleased pictures with her husband alongside an emotional note.
Remembrance
Mumtaz remembered Dharmendra as a 'legend'
Mumtaz remembered Dharmendra as an extraordinary colleague and "an even more extraordinary human being." "We worked together in a few films, and he was always a wonderful co-star," she said. "A very nice man with a truly golden heart. He was milansar - warm, friendly, connected to everyone." "He was a legend who will always be remembered; he is irreplaceable." On Wednesday, Mumtaz shared several nostalgic photos with Dharmendra on Instagram.
Last rites
Dharmendra's last rites and prayer meet details
Dharmendra passed away on Monday at the age of 89 while he was undergoing treatment at home. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital after experiencing breathlessness and was discharged on November 12. The veteran actor was cremated at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai. A prayer meet was organized for him this evening at the Seaside Lawns of Taj Lands End in Bandra from 5:00pm to 7:30pm.