Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol died on Monday, 24 November 2025, at his residence in Mumbai. He was 89 years old and passed away following a period of illness. His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from across the Indian film industry, political leadership and fans alike — many describing his death as the end of an era.
From humble roots to “He‑Man” of Bollywood
Born on 8 December 1935 in Nasrali, Punjab, Dharmendra came from a farming background and moved to Mumbai to pursue films. He made his debut in 1960 with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Over the ensuing decades, he carved out a formidable career, appearing in over 300 films and delivering numerous blockbuster hits. His breakthrough came with action‑dramas like Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971) and family entertainers like Seeta Aur Geeta (1972). He reached iconic status with the 1975 classic Sholay, in which he played the beloved character Veeru alongside Amitabh Bachchan. He was often called Bollywood’s “He‑Man” thanks to his masculine action‑hero image combined with romantic flair — a rare blend that made him a mass favourite.
Career milestones and versatility
- His filmography spans genres: action, romance, comedy and character roles in later years.
- Awards and honours: He received the Padma Bhushan in 2012, one of India’s highest civilian honours.
- Politics: Dharmendra served as a Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Bikaner, Rajasthan, between 2004–2009 representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
- Later roles: As he matured, he transitioned into father‑figure and character roles, proving his adaptability across decades.
Personal life and legacy
Dharmendra’s personal life was almost as storied as his career. He married Prakash Kaur, with whom he had four children, including actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. He later married actress Hema Malini in 1980, and the couple had two daughters, including Esha Deol, who too entered the film industry. He remained a beloved figure for his humble nature, work ethic and generosity — traits often praised by peers. As veteran actor Rajinikanth put it, Dharmendra had a “golden heart.”
Industry and public tributes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his death as “the end of an era in Indian cinema,” highlighting his combination of charm, depth and mass appeal. From Amitabh Bachchan to Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and many others, the industry paused to pay homage — gathering at the crematorium and sharing memories of a star who defined generations.
What remains behind
- His body of work remains evergreen: songs, dialogues and scenes continue to be celebrated, quoted and enjoyed.
- Legacy of family: Through his children and familial brand, Dharmendra’s influence continues to resonate in Hindi cinema.
- Inspiration: For many aspiring actors and filmmakers, his journey from Punjab to Mumbai reflects resilience, talent and evolution.
Final word
Dharmendra’s departure leaves a significant void in Indian cinema — a figure who bridged the classic era of Bollywood with modern sensibilities, and whose screen‑presence captured hearts across the country. As fans say “Abhi na jao chhod ke,” his memory remains, in frames, songs and performances that will never fade.
