Bollywood legend Dharmendra passes away at 89 in Mumbai

Actor Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 at his Mumbai residence on Monday, November 24, reported news agency PTI. The actor, who would have turned 90 on December 8, was not keeping well for a while and was in and out of a Mumbai hospital with the family finally deciding to continue his treatment at home earlier this month.

However, there was no confirmation from the family. The legendary star had earlier been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital due to respiratory complications. Fondly known as the He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra leaves behind an iconic body of work that spans more than six decades. His final screen appearance will be in Ikkis, slated for release on December 25.

Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his six children — Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol, along with Ajeeta and Vijeta.

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Widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema, Dharmendra made his debut with the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Known for effortlessly balancing action-heavy roles with emotional and comic performances, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2012. Dharmendra enjoyed a remarkable career, featuring in over 300 films and headlining classics such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Anupama, Seeta Aur Geeta and many others. He was widely celebrated for his versatility across action, romance and comedy.

PM Modi mourns Dharmendra's demise

His home production Ghayal, starring his son Sunny Deol, won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film. Dharmendra also earned several Filmfare Best Actor awards for his performances in Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, and Resham Ki Dori.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Dharmendra, saying his death marks "the end of an era in Indian cinema". "The passing of Dharmendraji 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. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people."

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"Dharmendraji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti," PM Modi posted on X.

Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8 in a village in Ludhiana, Punjab, he married Prakash Kaur in 1954 at the age of 19, before beginning his film journey. He later married actor Hema Malini.

Despite his age, Dharmendra remained active on social media, frequently sharing videos promoting fitness, simple living, and organic farming. His Instagram timeline often featured him driving a tractor, tending to his fields, and offering heartfelt life lessons. He last appeared on screen in the 2024 romantic comedy Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon.

Film industry pays heartfelt tributes

Veteran actor Sharmila Tagore remembered Dharmendra with deep affection and evident sorrow, describing him as a rare individual whose goodness touched every space he occupied. “We always felt safe when Dharam was around,” she told India Today, recalling how Dharmendra, though a man of few words, remained unfailingly endearing.

"Dharmendra's death is impossible to process. Dilip Sahab (Dilip Kumar) considered him his younger brother. He would often come to my house to chat, eat and sometimes drink with Dilip Sahab. I'm too upset to talk about this. I will always remember him," Saira Banu told NDTV.

Karan Johar paid homage to Dharmendra by sharing a note on Instagram. The filmmaker wrote, "It is an end of an ERA….. he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema… defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history … but mostly he was the best human being… he was so loved by everyone in our industry."

Shilpa Shetty wrote, "I've had the privilege of working with many talented actors, but none with a bigger heart than yours. Your talent, charm and dashing looks were just the beginning, but your humility, simplicity and kindness were so inspiring."

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Kajol shared a heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra on Instagram.. She wrote, "The OG of the Good Man is gone and the world is poorer for it.. somehow it seems like we are only losing the good people in it. Kind to the core and loved always . RIP Dharamji .. with love always."