There was a sense of seismic loss across India on 24 November 2025, when news broke that Dharmendra, Bollywood’s beloved “He-Man,” had passed away at the age of 89. The veteran actor, renowned for his charisma, strength, and quiet warmth, left behind a cinematic legacy that spanned more than six decades, over 300 films, and a profound impact on generations of fans and fellow actors alike.
Dharmendra, his Passing and Public Reaction
Dharmendra’s death was confirmed after a brief illness at his residence in Mumbai. He had recently been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital in early November following a period of medical observation. As news of his passing spread, the country joined in mourning: Bollywood events were cancelled as a mark of respect, including part of the International Film Festival of India programming.
At his funeral, held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, a host of luminaries paid their respects: Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and Hema Malini (his wife), among others, were present. Political leaders also expressed sorrow: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called his passing “the end of an era.”
Karan Johar, who had worked with Dharmendra as recently as 2023, shared an emotional tribute, calling him a “bonafide legend” and “the best human being.” Actor Suniel Shetty wrote, “Strength wrapped in grace… Heroism wrapped in a pure heart.”
From Punjab to the Silver Screen
Born Dharam Singh Deol on 8 December 1935 in Punjab (Ludhiana), Dharmendra came from modest beginnings. He was discovered through a talent contest, and soon moved to Mumbai to pursue acting.
He made his film debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, and over the years carved out an image that was as much romantic hero as action star. His striking good looks, rugged charm, and heartfelt performances made him a favorite across genres.
Why He Earned the Name “He-Man”
Dharmendra wasn’t your typical stiff-lipped hero or one-dimensional tough guy; he brought nuance. On one hand, he projected raw physicality and strength; on the other, tenderness and vulnerability. This duality defined his on-screen persona and earned him the moniker “He-Man of Bollywood.”
Some hallmarks of his career:
- Versatility: He did everything action, romance, comedy, drama.
- Iconic roles: One of his most memorable characters is Veeru in Sholay (1975), where his chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan remains legendary.
- Mass appeal: Part of his magic was how he connected with different audiences, not just through heroics but humanity his warmth, his dance, his laughter.
Beyond the Screen: His Personal Life & Legacy
- Family: Dharmendra was married to Prakash Kaur and later to actress Hema Malini (in 1980), without divorcing his first wife. He had six children, including Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol, many of whom followed him into the film industry.
- Honours: He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours in 2012, in recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema.
- Public Service: Dharmendra also had a political chapter: he served as a Member of Parliament in India from 2004 to 2009.
His Last Roles
Even in his late 80s, Dharmendra stayed active in the industry. His final on-screen appearance had been in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.
But perhaps most poignantly, a posthumous release was planned: Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis, due to hit theatres on 25 December 2025. This final film feels like a capstone, one last bow for a man who had dedicated his life to cinema.
How Dharmendra Changed Bollywood
Dharmendra’s influence was deep and multifaceted:
- Cultural Icon: He embodied a certain ideal strong but kind, rugged but gentle. That combination resonated especially in the 1970s and 1980s, when Indian cinema was navigating realism, romance, and larger-than-life action.
- On-Screen Partnerships: His pairing with Hema Malini was one of Bollywood’s most beloved. Garam Dharam (a nickname often used for him) and Hema on-screen became a beloved team, and off-screen, they built a life together.
- Inspiring Generations: His sons (especially Sunny and Bobby) carried forward his legacy, but so did many actors who admired his discipline and humility. He wasn’t just a star, he was a standard.
- Breaking Barriers: He moved seamlessly between styles of filmmaking, commercial, art-film, romance, and action, showing that an actor’s worth isn’t limited by genre.
Tributes and Reflections
Across India and across the film industry tributes poured in. Leaders and fans alike mourned the loss of a man who symbolised not just cinema, but something more: endurance, grace, and more than anything, a bridge between eras.
- Narendra Modi: Called him “an iconic film personality” whose passing marked “the end of an era.”
- Suniel Shetty: Highlighted his strength and grace, calling him a hero both on and off screen.
- Manoj Bajpayee: Recalled his warmth, dignity, and humour, noting that even beyond his superstar image, Dharmendra carried himself with grace.
For fans, his death is deeply personal. He wasn’t just a larger-than-life figure; he felt accessible. Many remember him tending his farm, driving his tractor, and sharing life lessons on social media, simple joys that made him feel close to ordinary people.
Why His Legacy Will Live On
- Timeless Films: Movies like Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, and Chupke Chupke are not just hits, they are part of Bollywood’s DNA. His performances in them remain etched in popular culture.
- Character Archetype: The “He-Man” persona he perfected, muscular, heroic, but emotionally grounde,d is something Bollywood still reveres and revisits.
- Family Legacy: His children, some of whom are film actors, continue the Deol name. But more than that, they carry forward his ethos of humility, work ethic, and warmth.
- Public Memory: Through interviews, old video footage, and his social media, fans will remember the man behind the myth: the farmer, the actor, the public figure.
A Personal Reflection
Imagine a young boy in a small village in Punjab, watching a black-and-white movie in a dusty theatre for the first time. On screen is this strong, smiling man, muscles tensed, but eyes soft when he looks at his love. That was Dharmendra for so many: tangible yet larger than life, a hero one could almost reach out and touch.
There was something almost fairytale-like about his journey: from a small town to becoming Bollywood royalty. But he never completely left his roots. He liked farming. He knew the land. He understood simplicity. This groundedness made his screen heroism even more meaningful: yes, he could fight the villain, but he could also plant a tree or drive a tractor. That duality the mythic and the ordinary, is rare.
When I think of Dharmendra, I don’t just recall Sholay or him striding into sunset-style frames. I remember laughter, his generous smile, his love for his family, and his pride in his farmers’ hands. The “He-Man” is gone, but I feel his presence when I think of someone who used strength not just to dominate, but to protect, to care, to remain human.
The End of an Era
Dharmendra’s death isn’t just the loss of an actor. It’s the symbolic closing of a chapter in Bollywood: an era of cinema where heroism meant more than punch-dialogues and stunts. His presence was rooted in realness; his legacy is anchored in warmth.
Also Read: Neeraj Vora: The Forgotten Mastermind Who Gave Bollywood Its Funniest Films
His passing at 89 marks the end of an era, but his spirit refuses to fade. He gave his heart to the camera, his energy to the screen, and his humility to his fans. As the films roll on and new stars rise, the memory of Dharmendra the He-Man, the gentle soul, the legend will continue to inspire.
FAQs About Dharmendra’s Life and Legacy
Q1. Why Was Dharmendra Called the “He-Man” of Bollywood?
Dharmendra earned the title “He-Man” because of his strong physique, powerful screen presence, and effortless action performances. He played rugged, heroic characters with a blend of strength and emotional depth, which made him one of Bollywood’s earliest action icons.
Q2. What Were Dharmendra’s Most Iconic Films?
Some of his most iconic films include Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Dream Girl, and Yaadon Ki Baaraat. His role as Veeru in Sholay remains one of the most memorable performances in Indian cinema history.
Q3. How Did Dharmendra Contribute to Indian Cinema Beyond Acting?
Apart from acting in over 300 films, Dharmendra also produced several movies under his banner, mentored young actors, and helped create evergreen Bollywood classics. He also represented India as a Member of Parliament, showing his commitment beyond films.
Q4. What Was Dharmendra Like in His Personal Life?
Dharmendra was known to be humble, emotional, and deeply connected to his Punjabi roots. He loved farming, spending time with family, and often shared heartfelt messages with fans. He maintained warm relationships in the film fraternity and was respected for his simplicity.
Q5. How Will Dharmendra Be Remembered in the Future?
Dharmendra will be remembered as a timeless superstar who balanced toughness with tenderness. His films continue to entertain new generations, and his unique persona strong yet soft-hearted will remain unmatched in Bollywood. His legacy lives through his work, his family, and the millions of fans who adored him.
