Veteran actor Dharmendra, widely regarded as one of the most enduring and beloved figures in Indian cinema, passed away at his Mumbai residence on Monday at the age of 89. Known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, Dharmendra’s legacy spans decades of iconic performances, unforgettable dialogues, and a larger-than-life screen presence that earned him a place in the hearts of generations of fans.
Dharmendra had been unwell for some time. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on November 10 following a deterioration in health. Several prominent film personalities visited him during this period to offer support. He was later discharged for home care under his family’s supervision, but his health continued to decline.
He is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, his second wife Hema Malini, and six children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, Ajeita, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. Dharmendra’s career was defined by versatility, ranging from intense action roles in Sholay and Dharamveer to comedic hits like Chupke Chupke, and romantic classics including Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Anupama, and Pyar Hi Pyar. His enduring charm ensured that even in later years, he remained a fan favorite across generations.
In recent years, Dharmendra continued to act, most recently appearing in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His final film, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, is scheduled for release in December 2025, ensuring that audiences will get to see his screen presence one last time.
Even at 89, Dharmendra maintained a disciplined lifestyle and remained actively engaged with fans on social media. His legacy is not just in the films he left behind, but in the inspiration he provided through his energy, dedication, and passion for acting. With his passing, Indian cinema mourns the loss of an irreplaceable legend whose contributions will continue to influence generations of actors and entertain millions of fans worldwide.