In the first image, Esha is seen dressed in a black-and-gold outfit, pointing towards the sky. The second photograph shows a star near the moon with the words “Love You Papa” written alongside a heart emoji. Though understated, the visuals conveyed a deep personal loss and quiet strength, drawing an outpouring of reactions online.
Esha captioned the post with a message focused on resilience and well-being, writing, “Stay blessed, happy, healthy, and strong… stay strong, stay healthy, stay happy.” Among the many responses, her brother Bobby Deol reacted with a heart emoji, a gesture that fans interpreted as a shared moment of grief and support within the family. Several followers and celebrities also left messages, remembering Dharmendra and offering condolences to his children.
Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, weeks before he would have turned 90. One of the most celebrated actors in Indian cinema, he had been dealing with age-related health issues for some time. According to family sources, he was hospitalised briefly after experiencing breathing difficulties and later continued treatment at home, where he passed away peacefully. His death marked the end of an era, prompting tributes from across generations of actors, filmmakers and admirers.
The New Year tribute from Esha comes on a significant day for Dharmendra’s legacy, as his final film Ikkiis released in theatres on January 1, 2026. The film holds special emotional value for fans, as it marks his last on-screen appearance. In Ikkiis, Dharmendra portrays ML Khetarpal, the father of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. The role has been described by critics as restrained and dignified, befitting a farewell performance.
The coincidence of the film’s release with the New Year has intensified public sentiment, blending celebration with remembrance. For the Deol family, Esha’s post reflected how personal loss continues to shape moments of joy and reflection.
As 2026 begins, Dharmendra’s enduring presence in Indian cinema remains evident—not only through his films, but through the memories shared by his family and the generations of audiences he inspired.
