Bollywood’s legendary actor Dharmendra has passed away at the age of 89, leaving millions of fans mourning across India and around the world. His death marks the end of an era that began in the black-and-white age of Indian cinema and evolved through the colourful, high-energy decades that followed.
Dharmendra’s Final Days
According to Indian media reports, several prominent Bollywood artists rushed to Dharmendra’s Mumbai residence after hearing of his passing. However, his family has not yet issued an official statement.
For the past several days, the veteran actor had been battling serious health complications. Earlier this year, he was admitted to hospital due to severe breathing difficulties, a condition that reportedly continued to trouble him. His recent recovery update, as reported here — Bollywood Legend Dharmendra Discharged from Hospital, Recovering at Home — had given fans hope before his health declined again.
While details about his final hours remain limited, colleagues and journalists who follow the industry closely say the actor’s health had been declining steadily. At 89, Dharmendra belonged to a generation that shaped India’s cinematic identity and established Bollywood as a global phenomenon.
From Punjab to the Silver Screen
Dharmendra was born on 8 December 1935 in Punjab. He grew up in a modest household, far from the glamour of the film industry. Despite this, he developed a fascination with cinema at a young age.
His big break came in 1960, when he debuted with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Though the film was modest in scale, it opened the doors to a prolific career that would span more than 60 years.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Dharmendra emerged as one of the most bankable stars in Bollywood. While many actors are remembered for either romantic or action roles, Dharmendra excelled in both. His versatility earned him the title He-Man of Bollywood, thanks to his charisma and strong screen presence.
A Career Filled With Classics
Dharmendra’s filmography includes some of Indian cinema’s most iconic titles.
Among them:
-
Sholay (1975) – Considered one of the greatest films ever made in India. Dharmendra’s role as Veeru remains unforgettable.
-
Chupke Chupke (1975) – A classic comedy that showcased his impeccable timing and charm.
-
Dharam Veer (1977) – A film that cemented his star status in the fantasy-action genre.
-
Seeta Aur Geeta (1972) – A beloved drama-comedy featuring Dharmendra in a memorable supporting role.
-
Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973) – One of the earliest Bollywood films to popularise the concept of a masala entertainer.
Over the decades, he appeared in more than 250 films, a rare achievement in an industry where longevity is hard to sustain. He worked alongside nearly every major star of his era and remained active even in his later years, often appearing in interviews, reality shows and special film cameos.
A Legacy Carried Forward
Dharmendra was also the patriarch of one of Bollywood’s most well-known film families. His sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, are established actors, while his daughters from his first marriage have stayed largely away from the limelight.
He also shared a long and celebrated on-screen and off-screen partnership with actress Hema Malini, whom he later married.
For younger generations, Dharmendra became a symbol of a golden age of cinema — a time when stories were simpler, emotions ran deeper, and movie stars were larger than life.
Tributes Pour In
Although the family has yet to comment, tributes have started to appear across social media. Fans have shared favourite scenes, dialogues and songs from his films. Industry veterans have described him as gentle, humble and deeply loved by colleagues.
Film historians note that Dharmendra’s impact goes beyond his movies. He represented an era of change in Indian cinema, transitioning from traditional storytelling to more experimental and modern forms.
A Farewell to a Legend
Dharmendra’s death marks the loss of one of Bollywood’s last towering figures from its golden age. His films continue to be broadcast across South Asia and remain part of popular culture.
For many, Dharmendra was not just an actor but a symbol of resilience, charm and timeless talent.
His legacy, built over six decades, will remain deeply woven into the fabric of Indian cinema.
