Srinagar, Nov 24: Veteran actor and Padma Bhushan awardee Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved and enduring stars, passed away at his Mumbai residence early Monday morning.
He was 89. The legendary actor, who had been facing health complications, was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month.
Filmmaker Karan Johar paid an emotional tribute, describing Dharmendra as “a massive megastar, incredibly handsome and a hero with the most enigmatic screen presence.” He added that the actor would be remembered not only as a true legend of Indian cinema but also as an exceptional human being.
Popularly known as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” Dharmendra leaves behind an unparalleled cinematic legacy spanning more than 60 years. Since his debut in 1960, he delivered over 300 films, earning acclaim for his versatility across romance, comedy, action and drama. His iconic portrayal of Veeru in the cult classic Sholay remains etched in Indian film history. His celebrated body of work includes timeless hits such as Phool Aur Patthar, Seeta Aur Geeta, Chupke Chupke, Pratigya and Dharam Veer.
Dharmendra was last seen in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon, and had won hearts once again with his role in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. His final film, Ikkis, had its poster released just hours before his passing.
The actor shared a long and successful association with director Arjun Hingorani, starting with his debut film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and continuing through multiple projects over three decades.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini, one of Bollywood’s most celebrated on-screen and off-screen couples, first appeared together in the 1970 film Tum Haseen Main Jawaan. Their chemistry went on to shine in classics like Sholay, Dream Girl, Seeta Aur Geeta, Dost and Alibaba Aur 40 Chor.
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Ludhiana, he also made his mark in public service as a BJP Member of Parliament from Bikaner between 2004 and 2009.
Among his many honours, Dharmendra received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1997), the National Film Award for Ghayal (1990), and lifetime achievement recognitions from IIFA (2007) and Zee Cine Awards (2005).
He is survived by his wives—Prakash Kaur and actress Hema Malini—and six children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Ajeeta, Vijeta, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.
Dharmendra’s demise marks the end of an epoch in Indian cinema, but his films, charm and larger-than-life persona will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions. (KINS)
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