Indian cinema is mourning the loss of one of its most charismatic and enduring stars, Dharmendra, who passed away on Monday at his residence in Mumbai. The iconic actor, affectionately known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” was 89 and had been battling age-related and respiratory ailments in recent weeks.
Dharmendra, who would have turned 90 in December, leaves behind an unparalleled cinematic legacy spanning over six decades and encompassing more than 300 films. His death marks the close of a definitive chapter in Hindi film history, prompting an outpouring of grief from the film fraternity, political leaders, and millions of fans worldwide.
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in a village in Punjab, his journey to becoming a superstar was a testament to his rugged good looks, natural charm, and immense versatility. He made his debut in 1960 and quickly rose to prominence, mastering genres from romantic drama in films like Anupama and Phool Aur Patthar to action blockbusters like Dharam Veer. However, it was his role as the lovable rogue, Veeru, in the 1975 classic Sholay that cemented his status as a cinematic immortal. His electric on-screen chemistry with co-star Hema Malini, whom he later married, also led to one of Bollywood’s most celebrated real-life and reel-life partnerships across dozens of films. “The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played.” — Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Dharmendra’s career was characterized by his effortless transition between diverse roles, which saw him continue to act well into his late 80s, including a notable appearance in the 2023 film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. His final feature film, Ikkis, is scheduled for a posthumous release this December. In 2012, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in recognition of his monumental contribution to the arts. He also served a brief stint in politics as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009.
The veteran actor’s last rites were conducted on Monday evening at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, in a quiet, private ceremony attended by close family members and prominent figures from the film industry, including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan, all of whom arrived to pay their respects to the beloved ‘He-Man.’ Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his children, including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void, but his legacy of warmth, simplicity, and a dazzling filmography will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
