Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly called “He-Man” of Indian cinema, passed away on November 24, 2025, at his Mumbai home at the age of 89, just weeks before his 90th birthday. He had been receiving treatment for respiratory problems after a hospital stay at Breach Candy in late October.
His family had earlier dismissed false rumours of his death. Bollywood producer Karan Johar posted and confirmed the news on Instagram. Industry members including his daughter Esha Deol have reached Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, amidst tributes from fans and colleagues.
PM Modi also shared his heartfelt message and called Dharmendra’s passing as the ‘end of an era’.
The Final Days of a Cinema Legend
Dharmendra’s health had reportedly declined in recent weeks, with an ambulance spotted at his residence on the day of his passing, accompanied by heightened security. He was hospitalised in late October due to breathlessness and was placed on ventilator support briefly before being discharged to receive treatment at home.
His enduring spirit and resilience won him a special place in the hearts of millions. Family members, most notably his son Sunny Deol, requested media and admirers to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
A Pillar of Indian Cinema
Dharmendra’s cinematic journey spanned over six decades with more than 300 films to his credit. Born Dharmendra Singh Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali village, Punjab, he defied humble beginnings to become one of Bollywood’s most versatile and beloved stars.
His early breakthrough came in the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, and his rise to stardom was cemented with hits like Phool Aur Patthar (1966), where he showcased his rugged charm. His role as Veeru in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay remains iconic and etched in popular culture.
Known for his action roles and charismatic dialogue delivery, Dharmendra won multiple Filmfare nominations and the prestigious Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. He also ventured into production, backing successful films that launched his son Sunny Deol’s career. Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2012, Dharmendra’s legacy is both artistic and inspirational.
A Stalwart of Versatility and Mass Appeal
Throughout his career, Dharmendra displayed remarkable versatility, seamlessly transitioning from romantic leads to intense action hero roles. His breakthrough came with the 1966 film “Phool Aur Patthar,” which established him as a bankable star with rugged charm.
He became synonymous with the ‘angry young man’ persona and was famed for his powerful dialogue delivery and charismatic screen presence. Dharmendra was a part of many blockbuster films including “Sholay,” “Chupke Chupke,” “Rakhwala,” “Seeta Aur Geeta,” and “The Burning Train,” among others. He was also a pioneer in Punjabi cinema, contributing significantly to regional film.
His impact extended beyond acting, as he co-produced and supported films, helping launch the careers of his sons, Sunny and Bobby Deol, solidifying the Deol family’s legacy in Bollywood.
Legacy amid Misinformation
In the weeks prior to his death, misinformation about Dharmendra’s health circulated widely on social media, causing distress among fans and family. His wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol categorically dismissed false reports of his demise, urging the public to rely on official statements. This episode underscored the challenges posed by the digital age in verifying sensitive news.
Dharmendra’s final film, the war drama Ikkis, is set to release posthumously, preserving his cinematic memory for future generations. His journey from a small Punjab village to the pinnacle of Indian cinema embodies the spirit of perseverance and passion.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Dharmendra’s passing invites reflection on the importance of empathy, truthfulness, and kindness in public discourse, especially when sharing news about individuals’ health. The Logical Indian honours the superlative contributions of Dharmendra to Indian arts and culture, a testament to unity and shared human experience through film.
