Veteran South Indian actors Kamal Haasan, Chiranjeevi, Mammootty and Mohanlal have opened up about the influence of the legendary Dilip Kumar, who died on Wednesday at the age of 98, on their lives and craft.
Kamal Haasan, a self-professed fan, wrote, "Dilip Kumar saheb. A career that teaches many actors like me a standard and commitment to maintaining in their performance. Truly one of the greatest actors of India leaves us today but leaves us with a treasure trove of his brilliance through his acting. His understated approach is still tried by contemporary actors who are brave enough to attempt it (sic)."
Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, Anupam Kher mourn Dilip Kumar's death
Another superstar from the southern film industry, Mohanlal said, "Dilip Kumarji was the doyen of Indian cinema and will forever be remembered."
Dilip Kumarji was the doyen of Indian Cinema and will forever be remembered.
— Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) July 7, 2021
Condolences to his family and friends. May the legend's soul rest in eternal peace. pic.twitter.com/s8kRj8cFdw
The actor was joined by his frequent co-star and peer, Mammootty, who wrote, "Farewell to the legendary thespian. I was graced by your love and affection every time I've met you. Your kindness and words made one feel like your own. Farewell to my all-time favourite actor."
Farewell to the legendary thespian. I’ve been graced by your love and affection every time I’ve met you. Your kindness and words made one feel like your own. Farewell to my all time favourite actor. There’s nobody like you. Before you or after you. #Dilipkumar pic.twitter.com/LI3uB2O8yP
— Mammootty (@mammukka) July 7, 2021
Actor-turned-politician Chiranjeevi shared an old image of himself receiving an accolade from Dilip Kumar, and wrote, "An Era comes to an END in the Indian Film Industry. Deeply Saddened by the passing of LEGEND #DilipKumar Saab. One of the GREATEST Actors India has ever produced,an Acting Institution & a National Treasure. Enthralled the world for several decades (sic).''
An Era comes to an END in the Indian Film Industry.Deeply Saddened by the passing of LEGEND #DilipKumar Saab. One of the GREATEST Actors India has ever produced,an Acting Institution & a National Treasure. Enthralled the world for several decades.May his soul Rest in Peace. pic.twitter.com/f5Wb7ATs6T
— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) July 7, 2021
Chiranjeevi's peer, Venkatesh Daggubati, also offered his condolences.
Dilip Kumar Sir is no longer with us! He was and always will be a legend.
— Venkatesh Daggubati (@VenkyMama) July 7, 2021
His legacy will continue to live in our hearts! My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends 🙏🏼 #ripdilipkumar pic.twitter.com/oelJYdGwj8
The younger generation of stars also took to social media to share their memories and pay their respects to the departed legend.
Actor Karthi hailed Dilip Kumar as a stalwart who set the benchmark with his performances.
Jr NTR also offered her condolences.
Dilip Kumar Saab's contribution to the growth of Indian cinema is priceless. Rest in Peace sir. You will be missed
— Jr NTR (@tarak9999) July 7, 2021
Rang De Basanti (2006) actor Siddharth also expressed sorrow at the passing of the legend.
One of the greatest actors the world has ever known has left us. A giant tree has fallen. I pray for the soul of legend #DilipKumar sahab. I also pray today's generation learns about and celebrates him. He is forever. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UKetoz8KIM
— Siddharth (@Actor_Siddharth) July 7, 2021
Actor Prakash Raj was also among those who offered his condolences online. "Thank you for living a wonderful life," wrote the actor.
A legend … an Inspiration… thank you for living a wonderful life #DilipKumar ji … 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 RIP … pic.twitter.com/F1uiXHzxsb
— Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) July 7, 2021
Academy Award winner Resul Pookutty revealed that his career began with Dilip Kumar at the Film and Television Institute of India.
The legend bids Adieu. For me it’s a personal loss, we started our career from you at #FTII Thank you for all those wonderful timeless performances. Rest In Eternal Peace sir🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/GVS1NPxPpo
— resul pookutty (@resulp) July 7, 2021