Renowned Bollywood star Dharmendra passed away in November of the previous year, leaving an irreplaceable gap in the industry and in the hearts of his family. In a recent discussion, his son Bobby Deol expressed the profound sorrow that has enveloped their family since the loss, highlighting how it has fostered a deeper connection among them.
During an interview with Esquire India, Bobby reflected on his regrets, stating, “There are numerous moments when I wish I had spent more time with him and asked him more questions.” He recalled a poignant moment when his father shared poems he had composed, which were inspired by his own feelings of regret regarding time spent away from his father, Kewal Kishan Singh Deol. Bobby remarked, “That truly touched me. But I guess that’s just part of life’s journey.”
Bobby also discussed the personal transformations he has experienced since his father’s death. “I am now more conscious than ever about cherishing time with my sons, my wife, and my family. Ultimately, the box office numbers, reviews, and roles become insignificant. True success lies in the time you dedicate to your loved ones. What value does fame and wealth hold if there’s no one to share it with?”
Bobby further reminisced about Dharmendra, stating, “I often find myself watching his videos on Instagram. He exuded such warmth and honesty. At times, it feels as though he is speaking directly to me.” Regarding his father’s last film, Ikkis, Bobby revealed that he wore one of Dharmendra’s beloved shirts to its premiere. “He used to wear it everywhere, so I decided to put it on for the premiere. It felt like he was right there with me.”
This journey of grief has also strengthened Bobby’s bond with his half-sisters, Esha and Ahana Deol. “I sense that each of us is coping in our unique ways. Misunderstandings can arise when everyone is hurting, as it often feels like one person’s pain overshadows another’s. However, with time, healing occurs. Loss has a peculiar way of uniting a family.”
At the recent Chetak Screen Awards 2026, Dharmendra was honored posthumously with a Lifetime Achievement Award, which Bobby accepted on his behalf. Overcome with emotion, he reflected on his father’s enduring legacy, stating, “I can see my father’s love reflected in all of your eyes. My dad touched your hearts through his work and social media, often without even knowing you. He found joy in creating Instagram reels. He always wished for everyone to be happy and believed that we each possess a unique gift, which can lead to extraordinary achievements if we learn to believe in ourselves. That’s why he dedicated so many years to this industry.”
Bobby Deol is set to appear next in Anurag Kashyap’s film, Bandar.
Disclaimer: This article shares personal insights regarding grief and the emotional journey of coping with loss. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes and should not replace professional grief counseling or mental health support. If you or someone you know is facing challenges related to loss, consider reaching out to a qualified professional.
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