Salman Khan Gets Emotional at Dharmendra’s ‘Ikkis’ Screening

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: The Bollywood industry witnessed a deeply moving scene on the evening of December 29, 2025, during the special screening of the war drama Ikkis. Superstar Salman Khan, known for his tough on-screen persona, was observed struggling to contain his emotions as he arrived at the Mumbai event. The screening, organized by Sunny and Bobby Deol, was held as a tribute to the legendary Dharmendra, who passed away in November 2025. The film marks the final on-screen appearance of the “He-Man of Bollywood,” making the night a somber milestone for his family and closest friends.

Pausing for a Silent Farewell

A viral video from the red carpet has captured the exact moment Salman Khan came face-to-face with a massive poster of the late veteran actor. As Salman walked toward the theater entrance amidst heavy security, he was observed suddenly stopping in his tracks to gaze at Dharmendra’s image. For several seconds, the Sultan actor stood in silence, his eyes visibly glistening with tears. He was seen wiping his face and folding his hands in a gesture of profound respect before attempting to compose himself for the waiting photographers.

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The “Third Son” Remembers His Idol

The emotional weight of the moment stems from the deep, father-son bond Salman shared with Dharmendra over the decades. Dharmendra often referred to Salman as his “third son,” and Salman frequently cited the veteran star as his primary inspiration for maintaining a fit and “He-Man” physique. This connection was observed during the screening as Salman appeared to avoid the usual media interaction, choosing instead to reflect quietly on the loss of his idol. The video has been described by fans as a rare glimpse into the actor’s vulnerability, especially following a year marked by personal losses.

Fans and Netizens React to the “Sallu-Dharam” Bond

Social media has been flooded with emotional reactions from fans who were moved by Salman’s raw display of grief. Many netizens have commented on the “pure and selfless” nature of their relationship, noting that Salman’s moist eyes spoke louder than any prepared statement. One widely shared comment noted, “Salman respects his seniors like no one else; his silence today showed the depth of his pain.” The hashtag #SalmanKhan has trended alongside tributes to #Dharmendra, as audiences prepare for the official release of Ikkis on January 1, 2026.

A Star-Studded Night of Remembrance

The screening was attended by the crème de la crème of Bollywood, all gathered to honor Dharmendra’s legacy. Rekha was observed blowing a kiss to the poster of lead actor Agastya Nanda, while Sunny and Bobby Deol were seen appearing visibly emotional throughout the evening. Other attendees included Tabu, Jeetendra, and Riteish Deshmukh, all of whom paid their respects to the late legend. As the industry moves into the new year, this viral moment stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring respect and love that binds the different generations of Indian cinema.