Dilip Kumar, the iconic actor who ruled the Indian film industry in the 50s and 60s, died in Mumbai on July 7 at age 98. “With a heavy heart and profound grief, I announce the passing away of our beloved Dilip Saab, a few minutes ago. We are from God and to Him we return,” wrote Faisal Farooqui, the late actor’s friend.

Born Mohammed Yusuf Khan, the ‘Tragedy King of Bollywood’ (the epithet he later earned) was known for his acting versatility, good looks, and subtle charisma. In over six decades of his acting journey, the Thespian delivered unforgettable hits such as ‘Devdas’, ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, ‘Madhumati’, ‘Naya Daur’, ‘Kohinoor’, ‘Ram aur Shyam’.

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The 1947 film ‘Jugnu’ was considered his first major hit. In the film, he starred with Noor Jehan. His biggest hit was the 1960 film ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, which was the highest-grossing film in Indian film history for 11 years until it was surpassed by 1971 film ‘Haathi Mere Saathi’ and later by the ‘Sholay’ in 1975.

As he breathed his last, many known personalities from different walks of life took to their social media accounts to remember him.

“To the world many others may be heroes. To us actors, he was The Hero. #DilipKumar Sir has taken an entire era of Indian cinema away with him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Om Shanti,” posted Akshay Kumar.

Also Read | 5 lesser-known facts about Dilip Kumar

Ajay Devgn wrote, “Shared many moments with the legend…some very personal, some on stage. Yet, nothing really prepared me for his passing away. An institution, a timeless actor. Heartbroken.Deepest condolences to Sairaji. #DilipKumar”

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Politician Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi says that “the country has lost a legendary actor and a great personality and human being.”

Here are some of the other reactions:

Dilip Kumar is survived by his wife and veteran actor Saira Banu.