Sascha Sippy Marks Dharmendra’s Birthday With an Emotional Tribute to India’s Iconic Matinee Idol

Sascha Sippy Marks Dharmendra’s Birthday With an Emotional Tribute to India’s Iconic Matinee Idol

Mumbai,  Dec 09 : Today, on what would have been Dharam-ji’s birthday, Sascha Sippy honours the legendary star with a deeply emotional tribute, making this remembrance even more poignant.

“Had GP Sippy Sahib been here with us today, he would have been the first to champion this tribute to Dharam Ji, honouring the legend who defined the film’s greatness,” said Sascha Sippy. 

Sascha Sippy, custodian of the iconic Sholay legacy, has issued a heartfelt tribute following the passing of Dharmendra, fondly known as Dharam-ji, one of India’s most beloved matinee idols.

Sascha has shared a deeply emotional message on social media following the passing of Dharmendra, lovingly known as Dharam-ji. Describing the news as “a shocker for me,” Sascha expressed the profound grief he felt.

“It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Dharam-ji, India’s ultimate matinee idol. A true legend who left an indelible mark on the hearts of our nation and every fan of the silver screen. His generosity and kindness to one and all will never be forgotten,” said Sascha Sippy.

In his post, Sascha wrote: “Farewell Dharam-ji. A legend whose kindness and humility touched everyone. Sholay was built on his spirit, and the memories I shared with GP Sippy sahib remain unforgettable. Through my toughest times, he stood by me with love and strength. His absence leaves a void.”

Sascha also acknowledged Dharmendra’s unwavering support during difficult phases of his personal and professional life. His generosity, guidance and encouragement served as a pillar of strength during challenging times, making his passing deeply personal for him.

Sascha’s tribute highlights Dharam-Ji’s pivotal role in making Sholay – the magnum opus, recalling how GP Sippy sahib built the film with him at its core. The widely remembered moment when Dharam-ji supported the casting of a young Amitabh Bachchan remains one of the defining decisions in Indian cinema. During the making of the film, Dharam-ji carried the responsibility of Sholay on his shoulders, lending it the warmth, spirit and emotional depth that helped define its timeless identity.

The post also reflects on cherished memories shared between Dharamji and Sascha.

As I was the chosen custodian of the Sippy legacy and SHOLAY in 1999, I had the honour and privilege of meeting Dharam-ji with my late grandfather the legendary GP Sippy sahib. At the 25th anniversary press conference Dharam-ji was one of the first to arrive and certainly the last to leave. Dharam-Ji and Hema-ji arrived separately, interacted with the press and in the private lunch thereafter reminisced with GP Sippy sahib and our family about the many special moments that occurred in the making of SHOLAY. 5 hours later Dharam-ji and Hema-ji left together in one car!

“Dharam-ji was always a source of support when I had plans to make SHOLAY in 2000 and went out of his way to help. Another indication of his generosity. I will truly miss him as when my grandfather GP Sippy sahib passed away and I went thru very tough times not only was Dharam-ji was a source of support and inspiration but of love and encouragement when it felt like the World was against me.” He further added.

Dharmendra leaves behind a towering legacy, one that is cinematic, cultural and deeply personal to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit endures through his unforgettable performances, the relationships he nurtured and the timeless place he holds in the hearts of millions.

On Dharam-ji’s birthday, this tribute becomes even more meaningful a celebration of a life that shaped Indian cinema and touched countless hearts.

It is without doubt that had GP SIPPY sahib been alive, the 50th year celebrations would be dedicated in his honour. Dharam ji’s absence makes it heart wrenching to celebrate, and therefore we reminisce and honour the life of India’s greatest matinee idol.

Sascha also acknowledged the monumental efforts of everyone who Contributed shape Sholay into the timeless classic it became. He paid special respect to Hema Malini ji, whose grace and strength remain inseparable from the film; Amitabh Bachchan ji, whose unforgettable performance defined an entire generation of cinema; and Jaya Bachchan ji, whose quiet power added depth and emotion to the narrative. Amjad and Sanjeev Kumar were the backbone of the story, He further recognised the dedication of the entire cast, the brilliant technicians, the creative teams behind the scenes, and the British crew whose technical expertise contributed significantly to the film’s scale and visual identity, and ofcourse the GP Sippy Sahib. Their collective artistry, discipline and passion continue to be celebrated as the backbone of Sholay’s enduring legacy.