The 89-year-old had been battling health issues, recently hospitalised
Courtesy: NoA
NATIONAL, November 24, 2025: Veteran actor and Padma Bhushan awardee, Dharmendra, passed away at his Mumbai residence this morning. The 89-year-old had been battling health issues and was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month.
Calling Dharmendra a massive mega star, incredibly handsome and a hero with the most enigmatic screen presence, director-producer Karan Johar said Dharmendra will be remembered not only as a bona fide legend of Indian Cinema but also as the best human being.
Affectionately known as Bollywood’s He-Man, the actor leaves behind an unmatched legacy of over six decades. Dharmendra made his debut in 1960 and quickly became a superstar due to his versatility. His career boasts over 300 films, many of which are considered classics today.
Some of his most memorable performances include the iconic role of Veeru in the cult classic ‘Sholay’, besides memorable performances in ‘Phool Aur Patthar’, ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’, ‘Chupke Chupke’, ‘Dharam Veer’ and ‘Pratigya’.
He was last seen in the 2024 movie, ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’, which starred Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon in lead roles. He had also starred in the blockbuster romantic-comedy ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani’, for which he received praise from fans and critics. His last film will be ‘Ikkis’, the poster of which was released earlier today, hours before the actor’s demise.
‘Dharmendra’s longest collaboration was with director Arjun Hingorani from 1960 to 1991. From his debut ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere’ in 1960, they worked together in ‘Kahani Kismat Ki’, ‘Kaun Kare Kurbanie’, ‘Sultanat’ and ‘Karishma Kudrat Kaa’.
Meanwhile, Hema Malini and Dharmendra made their first appearance as co-stars in the 1970 film, ‘Tum Haseen Main Jawaan’. From then on, the couple were seen together in films like ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’, ‘Sholay’, ‘Alibaba Aur 40 Chor’, ‘Dream Girl’ and ‘Dost’.
Born as Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in Ludhiana on December 8 1935, Dharmendra had also served as a Member of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Bharatiya Janata Party representing Bikaner in Rajasthan from 2004 to 2009.
Dharmendra’s notable awards include the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1997) and the National Film Award for Best Popular Film for Ghayal (1990). He has also received lifetime achievement awards from the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) (2007) and Zee Cine Awards (2005).
Dharmendra is survived by his wife, actress Hema Malini and his first wife, Prakash Kaur. His six children include Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Ajeeta, Vijeta, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.
Condolences
President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed grief over the demise of veteran actor and Padma Bhushan awardee Dharmendra. In a social media post, President Murmu said, the demise of the veteran actor and former Member of Parliament is a great loss to Indian cinema.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the passing of Dharmendra marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. The Prime Minister added that he was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. Modi also said that the manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people.
He added that the veteran actor was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. Modi also expressed his thoughts with the late actor’s family, friends and innumerable fans.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw have expressed grief over the demise of veteran actor and Padma Bhushan awardee Dharmendra.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the veteran actor brought life to many memorable characters with his unmatched charm and sincerity. He added that Dharmendra’s remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the world of cinema will always cherish the legacy of Dharmendra. He added that through timeless characters like the brave hero of Sholay and the soulful poet of Satyakam, he gave us stories of valour and compassion.
https://indigenousherald.com/