Yamla Pagla Deewana set for re-release as a tribute to Dharmendra
More than a month after Bollywood icon Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, his beloved film Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) is being lined up for a theatrical re-release as a tribute to the veteran star.
Tribute timing and who’s behind it
Sources say rights-holder NH Studioz initially planned a limited re-run on December 19, but the overwhelming public response to Dharmendra’s passing — described as the “Dhurandhar wave” — prompted them to reconsider. The film is now expected to return to cinemas on January 1, 2026, although a final decision will be confirmed in the coming days.
Why this film?
The 2011 comedy-drama brings together Dharmendra and his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, making it an emotionally resonant choice for fans who want to celebrate the family’s on-screen chemistry. Directed by Samir Karnik, the movie’s title nods to the classic song from Dharmendra’s 1975 hit Pratigya, and a remixed version of the title track helped boost its popularity.
Short reminder of the story and legacy
The film follows an Indian living in Canada who travels to Banaras to find his estranged brother and father, leading to comic and emotional moments as the trio head to Punjab to help the younger brother win over his love amid family chaos. It opened at Rs. 7.95 crore and went on to collect Rs. 55.28 crore worldwide, thanks to its comedy, mass appeal, and the strong presence of all three Deols. Its success later inspired two sequels in 2013 and 2018, which didn’t replicate the original’s box-office magic.
What fans can expect
The re-release aims to let audiences relive the laughter and warmth of a film that celebrated a real-life father-son bond. Whether you remember it for the songs, the comic set-pieces, or simply to pay respects to Dharmendra, the re-run promises a sentimental start to the new year for his fans.
