Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most adored and enduring stars, has died in Mumbai at the age of 89. Indian media reports say the actor passed away on Monday at his residence, days after being hospitalized for breathing difficulties.
Fondly known as a “simple man” despite his towering stardom, Dharmendra commanded unparalleled affection across generations. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he appeared in over 300 films, carving a unique legacy as one of Bollywood’s most charismatic and versatile leading men.
Amitabh Bachchan reached the crematorium to bid farewell to his dear friend.
Dharmendra is best remembered for his iconic portrayal of Veeru in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay, a role that remains etched in Indian cinematic history. With his effortless charm, comic timing, and action prowess, he became one of the most bankable stars of Hindi cinema from the 1960s through the 1980s.
Dharmendra was widely regarded as one of the greatest, most handsome, and most commercially successful film stars in the history of Indian cinema. Over a remarkable career spanning 65 years, he appeared in more than 300 films and held the record for starring in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema.
Nicknamed the “original He-Man of Bollywood” and “Garam Dharam,” he frequently appeared on global lists of the world’s most handsome men. Stories of devoted female fans sleeping with his photographs under their pillows became part of Bollywood folklore.
Dharmendra often reacted with humility to such admiration, crediting his looks to “nature, my parents and my genes.”
Born on 8 December 1935 as Dharam Singh Deol in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, he grew up in a middle-class Jatt-Sikh family. His rise from a small village to the pinnacle of Indian cinema remains one of Bollywood’s most inspiring journeys.
According to reports, Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai two weeks ago due to breathing difficulties. Earlier this year, in April, he also underwent eye surgery.
Dharmendra’s daughter Esha Deol and wife Hema Malini were seen arriving.
His passing marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema, leaving millions of fans and the film industry mourning the loss of a true legend.
