Dharmendra, the iconic Bollywood actor, producer, and politician, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at his residence in Mumbai, days before his 90th birthday on December 8. He was 89. Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in late October after complaining of breathlessness and was discharged 12 days before his death. His last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium.
The news of his demise has sent shockwaves through the Indian film industry and beyond, with tributes pouring in from fans, colleagues, and political leaders alike. Dharmendra, often referred to as the "He-Man" of Bollywood, leaves behind a legacy spanning six decades and over 300 films.
Ramesh Sippy, the director of the classic film Sholay, expressed his grief, noting the void left by Dharmendra's passing. "Three out of the six great actors of Sholay are no more," Sippy said, alluding to the earlier deaths of Amjad Khan (Gabbar Singh) and Sanjeev Kumar (Thakur).
Dharmendra's career began in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He gained popularity in the mid-1960s with films like Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke, achieving superstardom through his roles in numerous Hindi films. Some of his most memorable works include Satyakam, Chupke Chupke, and Dharam Veer. Beyond his action hero image, Dharmendra was also known for his versatility, playing romantic and comedic roles with equal aplomb.
Smriti Irani shared her condolences, calling Dharmendra "a son of the soil". She added, "He will always be remembered not only for his craft and humility but also for the lasting impression he left on everyone he met… Films like Chupke Chupke, Guddi, and Sholay will always remind me of his brilliance".
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and other political figures also expressed their condolences. A.R. Rahman posted on X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Dharmendra ji… A timeless icon whose grace, humility, and strength of spirit lit the screen and touched generations".
Dharmendra was not only an actor but also a producer and a Member of Parliament. In 2012, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award.
His final film appearance will be in Sriram Raghavan's war drama Ikkis, scheduled for release on December 25, 2025. The film, based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, also stars Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda.
Dharmendra is survived by his two wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his six children, including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol.
The New York Times called Dharmendra one of India's "most versatile stars," while Variety remembered him as "Indian cinema's most beloved and enduring stars". His contribution to Indian cinema will be remembered for generations to come.
