Indian cinema has lost one of its most cherished icons. Dharmendra, fondly celebrated as Bollywood’s He-Man and Dharam Paaji, passed away earlier today at the age of 89. The veteran actor breathed his last at his residence, marking the end of an extraordinary career that spanned more than six decades. He had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month due to respiratory complications.
The news of his demise has left the nation in grief. Fans, colleagues, and leading figures from the film industry have expressed their shock, paying tribute to an actor whose contribution shaped generations of Hindi cinema.
Dharmendra, born Dharmendra Singh Deol, made his debut in 1960 and swiftly rose to superstardom. His effortless ability to shift between tender romance and high-voltage action made him one of the most versatile actors of his time. Over the years, he appeared in more than 300 films, many of which have become timeless classics.
His illustrious career earned him several honours, including the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997, recognising his immense influence on the industry. In 2012, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour. Even in his later years, he continued to captivate audiences. He appeared in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, portraying Shahid Kapoor’s grandfather, and he received warm praise for his role in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. His final on-screen appearance will be in Ikkis, alongside Agastya Nanda, where he once again plays the role of a grandfather.
Dharmendra is survived by his wife Hema Malini, his first wife Prakash Kaur, and his children—actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. His absence creates an irreplaceable void, but his films will continue to resonate with audiences for generations.
From the unforgettable Veeru in Sholay to acclaimed performances in Phool Aur Patthar, Seeta Aur Geeta, Chupke Chupke, Dharam Veer, and Pratigya, Dharmendra’s charisma and powerful presence earned him millions of admirers across the world. His legacy, both as an artist and a beloved public figure, will remain etched in the history of Indian cinema.
