The Hindi film industry woke up to heartbreaking news on Monday morning as veteran Bollywood superstar Dharmendra passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. Police sources at the cremation ground confirmed his demise to The Indian Express, marking the end of a monumental era in Indian cinema. The actor—who featured in over 300 films over his long and versatile career—had been unwell for the past month. His last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, where family members, close friends, and members of the film fraternity gathered to bid him a final farewell.

Dharmendra, who would have turned 90 on December 8 this year, had long been cherished as one of the most charismatic and beloved stars of Hindi cinema. He was hospitalised in October after complaining of breathlessness. Though his team initially shared reassuring updates, saying he had chosen to extend his stay for thorough medical screenings, concerns about his health persisted. Earlier this year, he also underwent a corneal transplant—an eye graft surgery that he spoke about candidly during interviews.

Even till his last months, Dharmendra embodied the spirit of a true performer—resilient, gracious, and committed to staying connected with his fans and the world he ruled for decades.

A Cinema Icon Who Rose From Punjab and Became Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’

Dharmendra’s life story reads like a script waiting to be filmed—an extraordinary tale of grit, talent, and destiny. Born Dharmendra Deol in 1935 in Sahnewal village of Ludhiana, Punjab, he grew up in a humble household. His father worked as a schoolteacher, and young Dharmendra nurtured a quiet passion for films. That passion soon took flight when he won a national talent contest organised by a prominent film magazine—a moment that opened the doors to his dream world.

He made his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. The film barely made a mark, but Dharmendra’s determination did not waver. Just a year later, he delivered his first significant success, Shola Aur Shabnam (1961). Soon, roles in Mohan Kumar’s Anpadh (1962) and Bimal Roy’s Bandini (1963)—which went on to win the National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi—established him as an actor who possessed both striking looks and undeniable talent.

Through the 1960s, Dharmendra built his screen identity as a charming leading man who could hold his own in both emotional and romantic roles. But his transformation into Hindi cinema’s action powerhouse came with Phool Aur Patthar, the film that first projected him in an action-oriented avatar. It was here that he earned the nickname “The He-Man of Bollywood,” a title that stayed with him throughout his career.

A Legacy of Films That Defined Generations

Dharmendra’s filmography is a vibrant tapestry of genres—ranging from romance and comedy to intense drama and action. But it was the 1970s that truly belonged to him. The decade saw him at the peak of his powers, delivering back-to-back hits and iconic characters.

His notable films during this era included Jeevan Mrityu, Tum Haseen Main Jawan, Guddi, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Black Mail, Pratigya, Dream Girl, Dharam Veer, Seeta Aur Geeta, The Burning Train and of course, his evergreen comedy Chupke Chupke.

However, among all his films, his portrayal of Veeru in Ramesh Sippy’s legendary film Sholay remains etched in public memory. Decades later, his playful banter, rugged charm, and unforgettable camaraderie with Jai (played by Amitabh Bachchan) still evoke nostalgia. Though Sholay is repeated endlessly on television and streaming platforms, its magic remains intact—thanks in no small measure to Dharmendra’s effortless performance.

Yet, Dharmendra was not just about commercial cinema. His work in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Satyakam stands as one of his finest performances. Many critics believe it to be the best of his career—a role that showcased his ability to bring depth, integrity, and vulnerability to complex characters.

Despite the rise of superstars like Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra’s stardom remained unaffected—an achievement few actors of his generation could claim. He often mentioned in interviews how he did not receive many awards, but the boundless affection of the audience outweighed everything else.

A Personal Life Straight Out of a Bollywood Script

Behind the on-screen hero was a man whose personal life was often the subject of public fascination. Dharmendra’s chemistry with actress Hema Malini captivated millions. Her debut film, Tum Haseen Main Jawan, starred Dharmendra, and the two created magic on screen. Over time, their reel-life pairing blossomed into a real-life romance.

But the path was far from easy. Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he had four children—Sunny, Bobby, Ajeeta, and Vijayta. Despite this, his bond with Hema continued to deepen. Hema Malini’s family initially opposed the relationship, and there were even talks of her being paired with actor Jeetendra at one point. Yet, Dharmendra and Hema stood firm in their decision to be together.

Eventually, they got married and later welcomed two daughters—Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. Though Dharmendra remained married to both wives, he continued to live with his first wife, Prakash, and his extended family, while Hema lived in close proximity. Speculations of tension between family members surfaced time and again, but the Deols largely maintained a dignified and united front.

The Later Years: A Second Innings Filled With Character Roles and Production Ventures

As he transitioned into the later phase of his career, Dharmendra took on roles that reflected maturity and experience. He appeared in films such as Life in a… Metro, Johnny Gaddar, Apne, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His charming presence and emotional warmth continued to shine, reminding audiences why he had remained relevant for so long.

Dharmendra also made his mark behind the camera. In 1983, he founded Vijayta Films, under which he launched his son Sunny Deol with the blockbuster film Betaab. The banner later produced successful films like Ghayal, Barsaat, and Socha Na Tha. His grandson Karan Deol was also launched through the production Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas.

His film Ghayal won the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, one of the significant recognitions in his prolific career.

Dharmendra’s upcoming film, Ikkis, featuring Agastya Nanda, is scheduled to release in December, making it his final screen appearance.

A Brief Foray Into Politics

In 2004, Dharmendra stepped briefly into the political arena. He contested the Lok Sabha elections from Bikaner, Rajasthan, and served as a Member of Parliament until 2009. While he chose not to return to politics afterwards, his wife Hema Malini continues to serve as an MP, and his son Sunny Deol has also been an active political figure in recent years.

The Final Goodbye: Cremation at Pawan Hans, Industry in Mourning

The news of Dharmendra’s passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Reports indicate that he had been rushed to the hospital due to breathing issues earlier on Monday, but he could not recover.

Soon after his death, visuals from Mumbai’s Pawan Hans crematorium began flooding social media. Emotional scenes unfolded as the Deol family—Sunny, Bobby, Esha, Ahana, and others—gathered to perform the last rites. Celebrities from across Bollywood visited the crematorium to pay their respects, acknowledging the immense void left by the actor’s demise.

The industry, fans, and admirers across the world mourned the loss of Bollywood’s original “He-Man”—a star who broke boundaries, redefined masculinity on screen, and delivered some of the most memorable performances in Indian cinema.

Dharmendra’s Enduring Legacy

Dharmendra is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, his second wife Hema Malini, and his children—Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Ajeeta Deol, Vijayta Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol.

His legacy, however, lives far beyond his family. It lives in the timeless films he gifted the nation, in the roles that continue to inspire actors, and in the hearts of millions who adored him. From Satyakam to Sholay, from his action-packed heroics to his comedic brilliance, Dharmendra’s cinematic journey remains unparalleled.

As the flames settled at Pawan Hans and the world bid him farewell, one truth remained—there will never be another Dharmendra.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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