Icon of Indian Cinema Dies After Battle with Age-Related Ailments
Mumbai, November 25, 2025 – The Indian film industry is in mourning following the death of legendary actor Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at his Mumbai residence. He was 89 years old.
The actor, often called Bollywood’s original “He-Man,” died from age-related health complications after spending his final days at home surrounded by his family. His passing marks the end of an extraordinary era in Hindi cinema that spanned more than six decades.
Final Days and Hospitalization
In the weeks leading up to his death, Dharmendra had been hospitalized at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital due to severe breathing difficulties. His condition had deteriorated to the point where medical staff placed him on ventilator support as they worked to stabilize his health.
After receiving treatment, the veteran actor was discharged and returned to his Juhu residence, where he chose to spend his remaining time with his loved ones. It was there, in the comfort of his home, that he took his final breath on November 24.
Bollywood Pays Homage
Throughout November 25, a steady stream of film industry luminaries made their way to the Deol family residence to offer their condolences and support during this difficult time.
In the evening hours, actor Hrithik Roshan arrived accompanied by his father, filmmaker and actor Rakesh Roshan. The elder Roshan shared a professional bond with Dharmendra, having worked alongside him in the 1983 action thriller Teesri Aankh, making the loss particularly personal for the family.
Earlier in the day, actor Ajay Devgn was photographed arriving at the residence to pay his respects to the departed icon. Filmmaker Farah Khan, young actor Ahaan Panday, producer Jackky Bhagnani, and his wife, actress Rakul Preet Singh, were also among the notable visitors who came to console the grieving family.
The final rites ceremony drew an even larger gathering of Bollywood’s biggest names. Megastars Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aamir Khan were present at the crematorium, standing alongside the Deol family to bid farewell to their colleague and friend.
National Mourning
The loss resonated far beyond the film industry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, describing Dharmendra as a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he portrayed. The Prime Minister stated that his death marked the end of an era in Indian cinema, acknowledging the immense cultural impact the actor had on the nation.
A Career That Defined Excellence
Born on December 8, 1935, Dharmendra’s journey in cinema was nothing short of remarkable. Over a career spanning 65 years, he appeared in more than 300 films, holding the record for starring in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema history.
His filmography reads like a greatest hits collection of Indian cinema. From the action-packed classic Sholay (1975), where he played the lovable Veeru opposite Amitabh Bachchan’s Jai, to romantic dramas like Seeta Aur Geeta (1972) alongside Hema Malini, Dharmendra demonstrated remarkable versatility. Other iconic films include Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973), Dharam Veer (1977), Chupke Chupke (1975), and Phool Aur Patthar (1966).
His rugged good looks, combined with an ability to convey both strength and vulnerability, earned him the title of India’s “He-Man” and made him a heartthrob for generations of moviegoers.
Final Curtain Call
Remarkably active even in his later years, Dharmendra’s last screen appearance came in the 2024 romantic comedy Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, where he appeared alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His final film, Ikkis, is scheduled for release this Christmas, offering fans one last opportunity to see the legend on screen.
Family and Legacy
Dharmendra is survived by an extensive family that includes his first wife Prakash Kaur, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol (both successful actors in their own right), his second wife and legendary actress Hema Malini, and daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.
The Deol family has requested privacy during this period of mourning while they make arrangements for memorial services. Fans from across India and around the world have taken to social media to share their favorite memories and scenes from Dharmendra’s illustrious career.
An Irreplaceable Loss
As the Indian film industry grapples with this profound loss, it’s clear that Dharmendra’s impact extends far beyond box office numbers and awards. He represented a golden age of Hindi cinema, when larger-than-life heroes captured the imagination of millions and when going to the movies was a communal experience that brought families and communities together.
His death leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy lives on through his films, his family, and the countless actors he inspired throughout his remarkable journey.
The Hindi film industry, and indeed all of India, has lost not just an actor, but a cultural icon whose work will continue to entertain and inspire for generations to come.
Funeral arrangements and details of memorial services will be announced by the family in due course.
