From Dharmendra to Zubeen: The cultural giants we lost this year

His passing in November 2025 closed a chapter of pure cinematic majesty. Dharmendra wasn’t just a superstar—he was Bollywood’s heartbeat. As tributes flooded in, fans revisited the lionhearted hero who shaped generations, from iconic action frames to tender romances that still echo through India’s cultural memory.

When Zubeen Garg breathed his last in Singapore, India lost a voice that carried rebellion, romance, and raw emotion. His music shaped an entire generation in Assam and beyond. The digital world mourned by replaying the melodies that turned him into a phenomenon — a reminder of how one artist can shape the soul of a region.

Govardhan Asrani’s October departure marked the end of Bollywood’s golden comedic timing. From slapstick brilliance to layered supporting roles, he was a bridge between eras. In 2025, film students revisited his scripts, discovering how his subtle craft reshaped the grammar of Hindi comedy without ever demanding the spotlight.

Achyut Potdar—known for lighting up scenes in films like 3 Idiots—left us in August. His gentle presence, impeccable delivery, and dignified portrayals turned even small roles into unforgettable moments. As cinephiles revisited his filmography, they realised how much emotional weight he silently carried for Indian cinema.

Varinder Singh Ghuman’s October passing stunned fans of fitness and cinema alike. India’s first professional Sikh bodybuilder to go global, he brought athleticism to Bollywood long before it was fashionable. His legacy now inspires thousands chasing strength, discipline, and the art of reinvention.

Veteran actor-producer Dheeraj Kumar’s exit reminded the industry of a man who quietly built worlds behind the camera. His decades-long journey—from acting to creating iconic television—became a case study in longevity. In 2025, creators revisited his works to understand how consistency shapes stardom more than noise ever can.

Manoj Santoshi’s March passing dimmed one of Bollywood’s most spirited writing rooms. Known for punchlines, energy, and a unique comic pulse, he gave voice to characters that linger long after the credits roll. His unexpected farewell triggered an outpouring from actors who credited him with defining their most memorable scenes.

Actor Rakesh Pandey’s departure reminded Bollywood of its roots — the era of restrained storytelling and raw authenticity. His naturalistic performances resurfaced across film forums in 2025, where younger viewers discovered how his work captured the innocence and intensity of a changing cinematic India.

The loss of Manoj Kumar—forever “Bharat Kumar”—in April shook the nation. Known for patriotic cinema that shaped India’s post-independence identity, his films became a national moodboard during times of crisis. His farewell wasn't just Bollywood losing an actor; it was India losing one of its cultural architects.

Satish Shah’s passing left the country grieving a master of effortless humour. His comic timing, expressive genius, and unforgettable television legacy made him a household institution. In 2025, his scenes from Sarabhai vs Sarabhai trended all over again, proving legends never truly exit— they simply echo.