Mumbai: Indian cinema has lost one of its most enduring and beloved figures. Legendary actor Dharmendra, affectionately known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 89 at his residence in Mumbai.
The veteran actor, who defined the cinematic screen for over six decades, had been experiencing health issues related to prolonged illness and age-related ailments, having recently been discharged from a Mumbai hospital following treatment.
An Enduring Legacy
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in 1935, the iconic star captivated audiences with his rugged charm, versatility, and commanding screen presence. His career spanned over 300 films across genres, from romantic leads in movies like Phool Aur Patthar and Aaye Din Bahar Ke to the master of action and comedy in classics like Sholay (where his role as Veeru became immortal) and Chupke Chupke.
Dharmendra received the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2012 for his monumental contribution to the arts. His unique ability to transition seamlessly between the “angry young man” and the gentle romantic hero secured his position as one of the most bankable stars of the 1970s and 80s.
Tributes Pour In
Following the news of his demise, tributes poured in from across the nation, with political leaders and film fraternity members mourning the loss. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences, stating that the actor’s death marks “the end of an era in Indian cinema.”
Fellow actors and colleagues, including Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, and filmmaker Karan Johar, were among the many who arrived to pay their final respects, confirming the vast respect and love the industry held for him.
Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his children, including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol. His final rites were performed later in the day at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai. His legacy of films, which continue to entertain generations, remains permanent in the history of Hindi cinema.
