Dharmendra, the iconic "He-Man" of Bollywood, has passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai. The veteran actor, whose real name was Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol, breathed his last on Monday, November 24, 2025. He had been recently discharged from Breach Candy Hospital where he was being treated for respiratory issues. He would have turned 90 on December 8.
Dharmendra leaves behind a remarkable legacy spanning over six decades in the Indian film industry. His career began in 1960 with "Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere". He went on to become one of the most beloved and commercially successful stars in Hindi cinema, appearing in over 300 films.
Dharmendra, born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, captured the hearts of audiences with his rugged charm, versatile acting, and charismatic screen presence. He was not only an actor but also a producer and politician. He served as a Member of Parliament for Bikaner from 2004 to 2009.
Dharmendra gained popularity in the mid-1960s with films like "Ayee Milan Ki Bela", "Phool Aur Patthar", and "Aaye Din Bahar Ke". His roles in action films earned him the title of "He-Man". Some of his most memorable works include "Sholay," "Chupke Chupke," "Yaadon Ki Baaraat," and "Satyakam". His pairing with Hema Malini, whom he married in 1980, was particularly iconic, and they starred together in numerous successful films, including "Sholay".
Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his six children: actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol, along with Ajeeta and Vijeta. His family was often a topic of public interest, and in 2023, he expressed feeling that Bollywood had neglected his family's contribution to Indian cinema.
In his later years, Dharmendra resided at his farmhouse in Lonavala. Even in his 80s, he remained active in the film industry, showcasing his enduring passion for cinema. He starred alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon in the romantic comedy "Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya". His final on-screen appearance will be in the war drama "Ikkis," based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, which is set to release on December 25.
Dharmendra's contribution to Indian cinema was recognized with the Padma Bhushan in 2012. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the hearts of millions of fans and the Indian film industry.
