Amitabh Bachchan paid a heartfelt tribute to his Sholay co-star late Dharmendra during a recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati. It featured the cast and crew of Ikkis, which is the late actor’s final film before his passing in November. He was 89.
In Ikkis, Dharmendra essays the role of the father of Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. The war hero, who lost his life during the 1971 India-Pakistan conflict at just 21, is portrayed in the film by Bachchan’s grandson, Agastya Nanda.
Speaking on the show, Bachchan described Ikkis as a parting gift that Dharmendra left behind for cinema lovers. He reflected on the veteran actor’s lifelong devotion to his craft. He noted that true artists continue creating until their final moments. Bachchan referred to Dharmendra not merely as an individual but as an emotion, one that lives on as both a memory and a blessing.
Director Sriram Raghavan, who had previously collaborated with Dharmendra in the 2007 film Johnny Gaddar, said working with him on Ikkis held special significance. He expressed gratitude that Dharmendra’s final onscreen appearance was in a film he directed, adding that the actor delivered an exceptional performance.
Jaideep Ahlawat, who plays a Pakistani army officer in the film and shares several scenes with Dharmendra, also spoke about the experience. He said that despite Dharmendra’s towering stature in cinema, his presence on set felt warm and familial rather than intimidating.
Bachchan also revisited a lighter moment from the sets of Sholay. He shared a humorous anecdote from the film’s shooting in Bengaluru. He recalled Dharmendra’s wrestling strength. He hilariously revealed that the pain visible in his death scene was genuine because Dharmendra had held him tightly during the shot.
Raghavan revealed that he was initially looking to cast a younger actor for Ikkis when producer Dinesh Vijan suggested Agastya Nanda. He noted that the newcomer reminded him of Bachchan’s appearance in Saat Hindustani.
Agastya, meanwhile, said the film gave him a chance to see a more playful side of his grandfather, who is otherwise quite serious at home. He added that both Bachchan and Raghavan advised him to remain committed to meaningful work and stay focused on the craft.
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