26 August,2026 06:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kareena Kapoor, Dolly Parton and Priyanka Chopra. Pics via Instagram
The world of music and entertainment is mourning the loss of country music legend Dolly Parton, who died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer. As tributes poured in from across the world, Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor Khan and Priyanka Chopra Jonas remembered the singer-songwriter through her words, humour and enduring outlook on life.
Known for timeless hits such as Jolene, I Will Always Love You and 9 to 5, Dolly leaves behind a legacy that stretched far beyond music, spanning films, philanthropy and business.
Kareena Kapoor Khan took to Instagram Stories to share some of Dolly's quotes that she holds close. Sharing one quote about making a list of things one loves about oneself, Kareena wrote, "My girl; Love you forever, you diva."
She also posted Dolly's famous line about wanting a rainbow, meaning one has to "put up with the rain", captioning it, "Uff queen things." Another quote on creating a legacy that inspires others to dream, learn and do more was accompanied by the words, "Leader forever."
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, meanwhile, remembered Dolly's trademark humour. Sharing an old interview clip where the singer jokingly spoke about what she wanted written on her tombstone, Priyanka wrote, "You're never going anywhere... forever with us... rest in peace."
She also shared another video in which Dolly reflected on having no regrets, explaining how some moments that appeared to be mistakes eventually became blessings.
The tributes came from across generations of music and cinema. Taylor Swift remembered Dolly as someone whose legacy would remain "everlasting", while her goddaughter Miley Cyrus mourned the loss of her friend and recalled recording music with her.
Reese Witherspoon remembered Dolly's encouragement and generosity, while Katy Perry said she was an example of a woman who defied the stereotypes for decades.
Beyonce called Dolly "the barometer" and "the north star", praising her talent, generosity, humour and entrepreneurship. Beyonce had also rewritten her iconic Jolene lyrics.
Rapper Eminem also recalled receiving a kind note from Dolly, saying that the gesture had a lasting impact on him despite them never getting the chance to meet.
From Bollywood to country music and beyond, the message remains the same - Dolly Parton may be gone, but her music, humour and larger-than-life spirit will continue to live on.
