Veteran Actor Dharmendra, Fondly Known as ‘He-Man’, Passes Away at 89

Legendary actor Dharmendra passed away at his Mumbai residence on Monday at the age of 89.

The veteran star had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month due to respiratory complications. Revered as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” Dharmendra leaves behind a storied career spanning more than six decades, with his final on-screen appearance slated for Ikkis, releasing on December 25, 2025.

He is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and six children — actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol, along with Ajeeta and Vijeta.

Dharmendra, born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8 in Ludhiana district, Punjab, made his acting debut with the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Over the years, he showcased remarkable range across genres — from intense dramas and action-packed roles to light-hearted comedies. In 2012, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.

His filmography is packed with enduring hits, including Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baarat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Pratiggya, Chupke Chupke, Naukar Biwi Ka, Phool Aur Patthar, Satyakam, Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Dil Ne Phir Yaad Kiya, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Ankhen, Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, Jeevan Mrityu, Jugnu, Charas, Dharam Veer, Azaad, Ghazab, Loha, Hukumat, and Apne.

He continued to reinvent himself for new generations of viewers — portraying an elderly romantic in Anurag Basu’s Life in a… Metro, playing a tender, heartbroken guide in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and embracing slapstick comedy in the Yamla Pagla Deewana series with sons Sunny and Bobby Deol. His last released film was the 2024 romantic comedy Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon.

As a producer, Dharmendra delivered the National Award–winning Ghayal, starring Sunny Deol. He also earned multiple Filmfare Best Actor nominations for performances in Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, and Resham Ki Dori.

Beyond the screen, Dharmendra remained a beloved public figure. Even in his late eighties, he was active on social media, sharing glimpses of his rural lifestyle — driving tractors, tending to his farm, and offering simple health and life lessons to fans.

Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of an era for Indian cinema, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of charm, versatility, and enduring stardom.