Indian cinema today mourns the loss of one of its most cherished and celebrated icons. Veteran actor Dharmendra, affectionately known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, passed away this morning at the age of 89 at his residence in Mumbai. The news, confirmed by sources close to the family and widely shared by key industry figures like Karan Johar, marks the end of a glorious career that spanned over six decades and 300 films.
Dharmendra’s passing comes just days after his recent discharge from Breach Candy Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment. The news sends a wave of shock and grief across the nation, especially as the actor would have celebrated his 90th birthday on December 8.
The last few weeks of the legendary actor’s life saw intense public scrutiny following a period of hospitalization. Dharmendra was admitted to the hospital in late October after complaining of breathlessness, requiring strict medical observation.
During this hospitalization, the family battled a tide of false death rumours that aggressively circulated across social media. His wife, actress Hema Malini, and his children, including Esha Deol and Sunny Deol, actively issued public statements to condemn the speculation and assure fans that the actor was alive and recovering.
Dharmendra was discharged on November 12, just 12 days before his demise, with his doctor stating he was going home “fully satisfied” after receiving the required treatment. The family had since been managing his recovery at home, making the sudden news of his passing deeply tragic. Celebrities like Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Amitabh Bachchan had visited him during his hospital stay, highlighting the profound respect the industry held for him.
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in Punjab in 1935, the actor made his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He quickly established himself through the 1960s, mastering the role of the endearing common man. By the 1970s, he transitioned into the ultimate action hero, earning the sobriquet, ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, which defined his powerful, magnetic screen presence.
His career was defined by unmatched versatility. Dharmendra seamlessly transitioned between intense romantic dramas, high-octane action thrillers, and iconic comedies.
Key films that cement his legend include Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta and Dharam Veer displaying his versatility across different genres.
Even late in his career, Dharmendra continued to capture hearts, notably appearing in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023), proving his charm and acting prowess remained undiminished.
The news of his death provoked immediate and heartfelt tributes. Director Karan Johar was among the first to confirm the demise on social media, writing: “It is an end of an ERA… a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… there will always be the one and only DHARAMJI…”
Dharmendra leaves behind his wife, Hema Malini, his first wife Prakash Kaur, his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and his daughters Vijeeta, Ajeeta, Esha, and Ahana. The family was seen grieving as an ambulance left his residence and major industry figures rushed to the Juhu crematorium where final rites were performed.
The veteran actor’s final cinematic appearance will be in the upcoming war drama, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan. The film, which features Agastya Nanda, is scheduled for release on December 25, 2025. This last film will serve as a poignant farewell to a star who dedicated his life to entertaining generations.
