Dharmendra, the iconic Bollywood actor, producer, and politician, has passed away at the age of 89. News of his death on November 24, 2025, has plunged the Indian film industry and his countless fans into mourning. He died due to heart complications. Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on October 31 after complaining of breathlessness. He was later discharged and was receiving treatment at his home. His last rites will be performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium.
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, he was known as one of the greatest and most successful stars in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over six decades, he appeared in more than 300 films, earning him the moniker "He-Man" for his action roles.
Dharmendra's final social media activity, an Instagram post, has gone viral, resonating deeply with his followers. In the video, he is seen extending Dussehra wishes to his fans, praying for their "health and happiness". The heartfelt message, shared before his passing, has become a poignant reminder of his affection for his audience.
Dharmendra's career began in 1960 with "Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere". He gained fame in the mid-1960s with films like "Ayee Milan Ki Bela" and "Phool Aur Patthar". Some of his most memorable films include "Sholay", where he starred alongside his wife, Hema Malini. The couple had two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. Dharmendra also has two sons, Sunny and Bobby Deol, from his first marriage to Prakash Kaur.
In his later years, Dharmendra transitioned to character roles, appearing in films like "Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya" (1998). In 2023, Dharmendra expressed that Bollywood neglected his family and never appreciated Deol family's contribution to Indian cinema.
Dharmendra also had a career in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Bikaner from 2004 to 2009 with the Bharatiya Janata Party. In 2012, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor.
Dharmendra’s last film appearance was in "Ikkis", the trailer of which he shared on Instagram in October. The film is scheduled for release on December 25, 2025.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the film industry and his fans. Karan Johar called the actor's demise "an end of an era". His legacy as one of the most beloved figures in Indian cinema will endure for generations to come.
