Dharmendra's Unyielding Spirit: Choreographer Recalls Actor's Inspiring Dance Scene Amid Health Struggles

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The late Dharmendra's final film, Ikkis, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and the film industry. The movie's release on January 1 marked the culmination of a journey that saw the team working tirelessly to bring the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal to life. One of the most poignant anecdotes from the film's production has been shared by choreographer Vijay Ganguly, who recalled a heartwarming incident where Dharmendra, despite struggling with his health, showed unwavering dedication to his craft. According to Ganguly, the team was filming a qawwali sequence at 3 am, a challenging time for anyone, let alone a veteran actor battling health issues. However, Dharmendra refused to back down, insisting on performing a crucial dance step. When the team suggested that he simply move around and enjoy the music, he replied, 'Why can't I do this?' Ganguly revealed that Dharmendra's determination was palpable, as he got up from his seat and performed the step with ease. Ganguly praised Dharmendra's spirit, saying, 'It was fantastic to see him give it his all. He was showing that he could still do it, and we were all in awe.' The team eventually had to stop him from doing any more takes, as they didn't want to exhaust him further. Despite the challenges he faced, Dharmendra remained committed to his work, even going so far as to ask for the song's lyrics and volunteering to memorize them in case lip-syncing was needed. Dharmendra's passing on November 24, just days before his 90th birthday, came as a shock to the nation. His final film, Ikkis, is a testament to his enduring legacy and his unwavering passion for his craft. The film, directed by Sriram Raghavan, features Agastya Nanda in the lead role and has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike.