Mumbai, November 24, 2025 – Bollywood mourned the loss of veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away at the age of 89. The legendary actor, fondly known as the "He-Man" of Indian cinema, breathed his last at his Mumbai residence on November 24, 2025. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in late October after complaining of breathlessness and was discharged on November 12. Dharmendra would have celebrated his 90th birthday on December 8.
The news of his demise cast a pall of gloom over the film industry, with numerous celebrities flocking to his residence to pay their respects. Among those who were present to offer condolences were his wife Hema Malini, his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Salim Khan and director Rajkumar Santoshi.
Sunny Deol performed the last rites at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle. The cremation was attended by family members and close associates.
Dharmendra's death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. Tributes poured in from all quarters, with fans, fellow actors, filmmakers, and leaders sharing memories and expressing their grief. Many described his passing as "the end of an era".
Shah Rukh Khan penned an emotional tribute to Dharmendra, calling him a father figure. "Rest in Peace Dharam ji. You were nothing short of a father figure to me… thank you for showering me with blessings and love the way you did," he wrote on social media. "An inconsolable and irreplaceable loss not just to his family, but to cinema and film lovers the world over".
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, acknowledging Dharmendra's significant contribution to the world of cinema. Various other prominent personalities, including Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi, Kamal Haasan, and Priyanka Chopra, paid emotional tributes to the departed actor.
Dharmendra's last Instagram post, a Dussehra greeting, has now become a poignant farewell message to his fans. In the video, he wished everyone long life, happiness, and progress. The message resonates deeply with millions, serving as a final blessing from the beloved actor.
Dharmendra had a career spanning over six decades. He was last seen in the 2024 film 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya'. He was also slated to appear in Sriram Raghavan's war drama 'Ikkis'.
Dharmendra is survived by his wives Hema Malini and Prakash Kaur, and his children Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. His legacy in Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations to come.
