News of Dharmendra's health sparks childhood memories in Sahnewal

Sahnewal, the small town near Ludhiana, witnessed unusual hustle and bustle as news spread about the deteriorating health of veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, who spent his childhood here.

Though his family shifted to Mumbai in the 1960s, a few families in Sahnewal still share close ties with the actor and his parents.

Sant Ram Haar, who now lives in Montreal, Canada, is among Dharmendra’s old friends.

His nephew, Gaurav Kailey, who lives in Sahnewal, shared that his uncle had visited Dharam ji in September 2025.

“They share great memories together. Uncle comes to India every year and meets Dharmendra ji in Mumbai. Both my paternal aunts were like sisters to the veteran actor,” said Gaurav.

Gaurav also pointed out the house where Dharmendra once lived. It was demolished last year and reconstructed at the same spot — the place where his elder son, actor Sunny Deol, was born.

A shop owner from Lambardar Sweets, located near Dharmendra’s ancestral house, recalled that the actor was particularly fond of their 'gajrela'.

“His hospitality was unmatched. Whoever went to meet him in Mumbai was warmly welcomed and treated by the actor and his family,” said Mintu Rajiv Kumar, another neighbour, while showing the Government Primary School building where the actor studied during his early years.

Dharmendra shared close associations with families like the Kaileys and Kapilas. Many of his old acquaintances have since passed away, but their children and grandchildren continue to cherish and share fond memories of the beloved actor.