The world of cinema has lost a giant. The news that our beloved Dharmendra is no more has left a deep hole in the hearts of millions of fans, both in India and around the world. The man known as the original ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, the star who brought so much joy, action, and laughter to the screen for over six decades, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 89 in Mumbai.
It feels like the end of an entire chapter of Indian film history. Dharmendra, or Dharam-ji as he was lovingly called, wasn’t just an actor; he was an emotion. He was the handsome, muscular hero who could fight ten villains, make you weep with his sadness, and leave you in splits with his comedy, all in the same film. Even though he had been unwell for some time, the news of his passing has brought a wave of sorrow that is truly hard to bear.
The Boy Who Came from the Village
What made Dharmendra so special was his realness, his connection to the common man. Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in a small village called Nasrali in Punjab, he came from a very simple family. He was a village boy who dreamt of being a star. He was so passionate about acting that he took part in a talent contest and packed his bags for Mumbai, the ‘City of Dreams,’ with nothing but hope and grit.
In a film industry often filled with complex, sometimes artificial people, Dharam-ji was always the most down-to-earth. He carried the simplicity and the warm, open heart of the farmer’s son from Punjab with him, no matter how famous he became. People loved him because they saw themselves in him—someone who worked hard and stayed true to his roots. His amazing success story inspired countless youngsters who came to Bollywood with similar dreams.
A Career That Defined Versatility
Dharmendra’s film journey, which began way back in 1960, was unlike any other. He acted in over 300 films and was perhaps the most versatile hero Bollywood ever saw.
The Action King and The Rugged Hero
He was first dubbed the ‘He-Man’ because of his strong build and incredible action scenes. In the 1970s, he was the face of the angry, rugged hero. Films like Dharam Veer, Pratiggya, and Charas made him a powerhouse.
But no talk about Dharmendra is complete without mentioning Sholay (1975). As Veeru, the fun-loving, quick-witted rogue, he created a character that has become immortal. Who can forget the famous scene where he sits on a water tank, threatening to jump? Or his timeless chemistry with the ultimate Dream Girl, Hema Malini? Sholay proved that he could blend action, romance, and flawless comedy all together, making it one of the biggest Indian films of all time.
The King of Romance and Comedy
What many forget is that before he became the action star, he was the industry’s most charming romantic hero. In films like Phool Aur Patthar (which was his first big hit), Anupama, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke, he showed a softness and vulnerability that made him a favorite with women and families alike.
He also proved his brilliance in comedy. In the classic Chupke Chupke (1975), he was utterly hilarious, showing a side of himself that made people realize he was a complete actor. Even in a quiet, thoughtful film like Satyakam (1969), he delivered one of the most serious and moving performances of his life.
In his later years, he continued to entertain. He delighted a new generation of fans with the Yamla Pagla Deewana series and, most recently, won over hearts again as the lovable, gentle grandfather in Karan Johar’s film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Even at an advanced age, his charisma was unbeatable.
A Life Lived with Love and Respect
Dharmendra leaves behind a large, loving family. He is survived by his first wife, Prakash Kaur, and his second wife, the legendary actress Hema Malini. His children, including Bollywood stars Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and his daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, were all present during his final rites, uniting in grief over the loss of their patriarch.
The entire film fraternity—from Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to the new generation of stars—has expressed their deep sadness. It’s a shared grief across the nation because every Indian family grew up watching him. His passing truly marks the moment where a golden era of Bollywood finally comes to an end.
He won countless awards throughout his career, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan from the Government of India in 2012, which is the country’s third-highest civilian honor. These honors speak volumes about his immense contribution to Indian culture.
Dharmendra was a man of immense kindness, warmth, and honesty. He made us feel every emotion he played on screen. Though he is gone, his legacy is locked away not just in the film reels but in the memories of those unforgettable dialogues and songs that will play on repeat for generations. The He-Man of Bollywood has taken his final bow, leaving behind a profound silence where his cheerful presence once was. May his soul find peace.