Mumbai, Nov. 24 -- Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar paid a heartfelt and emotional tribute to Dharmendra, who passed away in Mumbai on Monday. He remembered the iconic star with whom he shared a warm personal bond.

Sharing his sentiments on Instagram, Tendulkar said that his admiration for Dharmendra began much before they ever met.

"I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him," he said.

Tendulkar recalled the veteran actor's infectious personality and the affection he always showered on him.

"His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, 'Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh jaata ha...