Dharmendra, one of Bollywood’s most cherished and enduring stars, has passed away at the age of 89. The veteran actor, who would have celebrated his 90th birthday on December 8, had spent several weeks in and out of a Mumbai hospital before his death.
Known widely as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” Dharmendra appeared in over 300 films throughout a remarkable career that transformed him into one of India’s most recognizable screen legends. His talent stretched across genres — from action-packed roles and heartfelt romances to lighthearted comedies — making him a favorite among audiences for generations.
His rise to stardom in the 1970s and 1980s cemented his status as a household name across India and abroad. His performance in Sholay (1975), one of India’s most celebrated films, remains one of his most iconic roles. His chemistry with co-star Amitabh Bachchan helped create one of Bollywood’s most memorable on-screen partnerships.
Dharmendra’s versatility also shone through in beloved films such as the comedy Chupke Chupke (1975) and the action classic Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971). His long-running collaboration with actress Hema Malini — who later became his wife — resulted in more than two dozen films and became one of Hindi cinema’s most famous pairings. Their personal relationship, however, stirred controversy, as Dharmendra had been married to Prakash Kaur before joining the film industry and never officially ended that marriage.
The actor was born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in 1935 in Punjab, where he grew up in a farming family before moving to Mumbai in the late 1950s. His debut film came in 1960, marking the beginning of a career that spanned more than six decades. Over the years, he gradually transitioned into fatherly and character-driven roles, continuing to appear on screen well into his later years. His final film, the war biopic Ikkis, released in 2025.
In 2012, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, recognizing his immense contributions to Indian cinema. He also briefly served in politics as a lawmaker from 2004 to 2009.
Dharmendra leaves behind his wives, children, and grandchildren, as well as a legacy that shaped the cultural fabric of Bollywood and influenced countless actors who followed.