Bollywood Mourns as Dharmendra, the Legendary ‘He-Man', Passes Away at 89
Dharmendra started his Bollywood journey with his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.
Bollywood Mourns as Dharmendra, the Legendary ‘He-Man’, Passes Away at 89
Legendary actor Dharmendra, also known as He-Man of Bollywood, passed away on November 24, 2025, at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89. According to news agency IANS, the actor was in his recovery phase at home after being discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital in early November, where he was admitted due to breathing issues.
His Journey
Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol was born in a village in Ludhiana, Punjab. He entered Bollywood after his marriage with Prakash Kaur in 1954. He later married actress Hema Malini, and they had two children, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. He had four other children, including actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, with Prakash Kaur.
Dharmendra started his Bollywood journey with his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Initially, he played the role of a common man in films like Anpadh, Bandini, Anupama, and Aaya Sawan Jhoom Ke. Gradually he evolved into one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic stars. He delivered multiple unforgettable performances in hits such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and Dream Girl. Known for his versatility, he excelled in multiple genres, such as romantic, comic, and action roles, and earned accolades, including multiple Filmfare Best Actor awards and the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
Even in his late 80s, he remained active on social media. He used to share videos promoting organic farming, healthy living, and simple life lessons. His dedication to cinema continued with his recent appearance in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya and his upcoming film Ikkis, which features Agastya Nanda and is scheduled to release on December 25, 2025. The first poster of Ikkis, showcasing Dharmendra in a powerful role, became a touching tribute to the actor’s enduring legacy.
Bollywood has mourned his demise and paid tribute to the legendary actor. Stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Kajol, Akshay Kumar, and Karan Johar attended his cremation at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai. Director Madhur Bhandarkar remembered him as the “real He-Man of Indian cinema”, while Karan Johar called his death “an end of an era”, praising Dharmendra’s charm, screen presence, and contribution to the heart of Bollywood.
Dharmendra leaves behind a cinematic legacy that will inspire generations. He was not just an actor but a symbol of warmth, charisma and courage. His films, his values, and his love for life will remain immortal in the hearts of millions of fans.