Just a few days ago, news of Dharmendra’s illness had sent waves of worry across the nation, and his improving health had offered fans a gentle sense of relief. Today, that fear became real, as the legendary actor passed away today, at his Mumbai residence. He was 89. Known fondly as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” Dharmendra’s career spanned over six decades, leaving audiences with unforgettable characters across action, romance, comedy, and family dramas.
In recent weeks, the actor had been battling health issues, including severe breathlessness, which led to hospitalisation at Breach Candy Hospital. After his discharge, he continued treatment at home. While earlier rumours of his death had caused confusion, his family had reassured fans that he was stable and recovering.
Dharmendra’s career is highlighted by a string of unforgettable films. He became a cultural icon with Sholay (1975), where his role as Veeru remains legendary, and rose as a romantic-action hero in Phool Aur Patthar (1966). His comic brilliance shone in Chupke Chupke (1975) and Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), while family audiences loved him in the musical drama Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973). Action lovers celebrated him in Rakhwala (1971), enjoyed his lively humor and heroics in Jugnu (1973), and later charmed audiences once again in the Yamla Pagla Deewana series (2011–2018) with his sons. These films reflect his versatility, energy, and enduring appeal.
Beyond the screen, Dharmendra was admired for his warmth, humility, and generosity. As India bids farewell to him, the nation mourns not just an actor, but a man whose life celebrated courage, love, and joy. Though he is no longer with us, his films, spirit, and the memories he created will live on forever. The He-Man may have left this world, but he will never leave the hearts of those who loved him.
All the family members, close friends, and colleagues gathered to support one another. Among them were his wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughter Esha Deol, alongside other film industry stalwarts including Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan, who paid their final respects at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai.
