Indian cinema mourns the loss of one of its most beloved and enduring icons, legendary actor Dharmendra, who passed away at the age of 89. Fondly christened the ‘He-Man of Bollywood,’ Dharmendra leaves behind a cinematic legacy spanning over six decades that profoundly shaped the language of Hindi film heroism, romance, and emotional storytelling. With more than 300 films to his credit, he stood as a beloved bridge between eras, adored by filmmakers, co-stars, and millions of fans across generations.
Born Dharam Singh Deol on December 8, 1935, in Sahnewal, Punjab, Dharmendra’s journey from a small-town boy to one of Hindi cinema’s most charismatic leading men remains a legendary tale. His path to stardom began after he won a Filmfare talent contest, prompting his move to Mumbai and the start of his film career in the late 1950s. His raw charm, sincerity, and undeniable screen presence quickly captivated audiences.
A Star Who Redefined Stardom
Dharmendra first rose to prominence in the 1960s with acclaimed films such as Bandini (1963), Haqeeqat (1964), and Anupama (1966). In these roles, he developed a reputation for conveying deep emotional strength with quiet subtlety. His romantic appeal was unmatched; blessed with a deep voice, effortlessly expressive eyes, and natural charm, he was a heartthrob long before the term became mainstream.
By the early 1970s, Dharmendra was firmly established as a major box-office draw, headlining action dramas, romances, and comedies with remarkable versatility. His powerful collaborations with director Ramesh Sippy and co-stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, and Sharmila Tagore produced some of Hindi cinema’s most enduring moments.
The Immortal Veeru
In 1975, Dharmendra delivered his immortal performance as Veeru in Sholay, a film universally regarded as one of the greatest Indian movies of all time. His playful camaraderie with co-star Amitabh Bachchan, impeccable comic timing, mischievous spirit, and iconic romantic sequences with Hema Malini ensured that Veeru transcended mere character status to become a deeply cherished cultural memory. Even today, his dialogue, “Basanti, in kutton ke saamne mat nachna,” instantly evokes profound nostalgia.
Beyond Sholay, his critically acclaimed work included Phool Aur Patthar (1966), which secured his first Filmfare Best Actor nomination, and Satyakam (1969), often cited as one of his finest performances for revealing the moral strength, vulnerability, and complexity he could portray with complete naturalism.
A Gentleman Beyond Stardom
Despite his towering fame, Dharmendra remained remarkably grounded. He was widely known for his humility and humor, often making light of his own image while speaking sincerely about the importance of family, simplicity, and emotional honesty. Co-stars consistently remembered him as warm, respectful, and unpretentious—a personality that allowed him to remain universally loved throughout the dramatic changes in the industry.
His renowned love story with actress Hema Malini is one of Hindi cinema’s most talked-about and enduring romances. Their electric onscreen chemistry transitioned into real life, culminating in their marriage in 1980. Together, they starred in blockbusters like Seeta Aur Geeta, Dream Girl, Jugnu, and Sholay, forming one of Indian cinema’s most iconic pairs.
Dharmendra is survived by his two wives, Hema Malini and Prakash Kaur, and his six children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. His sons, Sunny and Bobby, successfully followed him into acting, carrying forward the family’s cinematic legacy.
A Legacy That Lives On
Even in his later years, Dharmendra continued his cinematic journey, most notably appearing alongside his sons in the Yamla Pagla Deewana franchise, where he embraced his age with humor and grace. His final, heartwarming screen appearance in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) reminded the world that his screen presence remained powerfully enchanting and heartfelt until the very end.
Tributes are pouring in from Prime Ministerial leaders, actors across all generations, and fans worldwide, remembering Dharmendra as a symbol of kindness, strength, and timeless commitment to the craft of cinema. His contribution is immeasurable—his filmography continues to inspire, his dialogues echo in countless homes, and his warm spirit remains etched in the collective affection of a nation he entertained for over six decades.
Dharmendra will forever be remembered not just as an actor, but as a beloved storyteller, a cultural icon, and one of the most unforgettable leading men India has ever known.