The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa came to a quiet halt on November 24 as organisers cancelled all entertainment programmes for the day following the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra, who was 89.
The schedule had included traditional Goan folk performances like Romtamel and several on-stage cultural shows. While these were put on hold as a mark of respect, film screenings across all festival venues continued as planned.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed his grief on X, calling Dharmendra “one of Indian cinema’s most beloved and enduring icons.” He added, “My heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and millions of admirers across the nation.”
Before the screening of a film in the Goan Cinema section, the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) led a solemn one-minute silence. Delegates stood together to pay tribute to the actor whose work spanned more than six decades and touched countless lives.
Dharmendra passed away in Mumbai after a brief illness, just days short of his 90th birthday on December 8. Although the exact cause of death has not been revealed, sources said he had been unwell since the beginning of the month and had been hospitalized.
The atmosphere at IFFI shifted from festive to reflective, as the festival community came together to honour the memory of a man often called the “He-Man of Indian Cinema”, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
