Mumbai, November 24: Veteran actor Dharmendra, whose career spanned more than six decades, breathed his last in Mumbai at the age of 89. Widely celebrated for his powerful screen presence and versatility, Dharmendra was affectionately called the He-Man of Bollywood. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.
Born in 1935, Dharmendra rose to fame in the 1960s and 70s with memorable performances in films such as Phool Aur Patthar, Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Mera Gaon Mera Desh. His ability to seamlessly shift between action-packed roles and romantic characters earned him admiration across generations. Beyond his cinematic achievements, he was cherished for his humility and warmth off-screen.
The actor is survived by his wife, actress Hema Malini, and children Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. His family, along with leading figures from the film industry, gathered in Mumbai to pay their final respects. Prominent stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan were seen consoling the Deol family at the funeral.
Tributes have poured in from across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dharmendra as a “legend who brought joy to countless lives through his films”. Fans gathered outside his Juhu residence and at the cremation site, reflecting the deep emotional connection he shared with audiences.
Dharmendra’s last screen appearance was in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, and he was slated to feature in Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming war drama Ikkis. His enduring legacy lies not only in his blockbuster films but also in the inspiration he provided to generations of actors who followed in his footsteps.
As the industry bids farewell, Dharmendra’s contribution to Indian cinema will continue to resonate. His charisma, resilience, and timeless performances ensure that he will forever remain a cherished figure in Bollywood history
