Mumbai, November 24 — Indian cinema woke up to heartbreaking news on Sunday. Dharmendra, one of Bollywood’s most respected and loved actors, passed away at the age of 89. Known to millions as the ‘He-Man’ of Hindi cinema, the actor breathed his last at his Mumbai residence after a prolonged health battle.
His family, including his wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol, were seen arriving at the cremation site earlier today. According to sources close to the family, Dharmendra had been in and out of Breach Candy Hospital in the past few weeks and was moved home recently for continued medical care.
The news of his passing has left the film industry, his fans across generations, and cinema lovers across the globe in deep grief.
A Journey That Defined Hindi Cinema
Dharmendra wasn’t just a hero on screen—he was a phenomenon. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he starred in over 300 films and delivered some of cinema’s most unforgettable characters.
From intense action roles to heartfelt emotional performances, Dharmendra possessed a rare ability to shift effortlessly between romance, comedy, drama, and thrillers.
His roles in films like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Phool aur Patthar, Yaadon Ki Baarat, and Mera Gaon Mera Desh continue to remain fixtures of Indian film history.
Long before fitness became a trend in Bollywood, Dharmendra had already earned the title of ‘He-Man’, not just for his physique, but for his commanding screen presence.
A Family Legacy
Dharmendra is survived by:
- His first wife Prakash Kaur
- Sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol
- His second wife Hema Malini
- Daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol
The Deol family requested privacy as condolences from across the world poured in — from political leaders to top actors, directors, and fans.
Final Films and Last Public Years
Despite his age, Dharmendra never truly stepped away from cinema.
His last theatrical appearance was in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His final on-screen performance will be seen in Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan — a film based on the 1971 Battle of Basantar. The film is expected to release later this year and will now stand as his final goodbye to the silver screen.
Tributes and Reactions
Social media has been flooded with tributes, memories, posters, and scenes from his films.
Fans are calling his passing:
“Not just the end of a life, but the end of an era.”
Actors and filmmakers have referred to him as a gentle soul, a man with dignity, warmth, and unmatched humility — someone who treated everyone with respect, whether a spot boy or a superstar.
A Legacy Carved in Golden Letters
Dharmendra belonged to a generation of actors who shaped Indian cinema into what it is today. His journey—from a small town in Punjab to the peak of superstardom—remains one of Bollywood’s most inspiring stories.
His films, dialogues, warmth, humour, and screen charm will continue to live, replayed on television, streaming platforms, and in the hearts of millions.
Rest in Peace, Legend
As the nation says goodbye, one truth remains — actors come and go, but icons like Dharmendra never truly leave.
His laughter, his voice, his films — everything stays.
May his soul find peace.
And may his legacy never dim.