Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema’s most adored and enduring screen icons, has passed away at the age of 89, drawing the curtain on a career that shaped popular culture for more than six decades. His death, only weeks before his 90th birthday on December 8, prompted an outpouring of tributes from the film fraternity and political leaders, many of whom described it as the end of an era.
An ambulance was earlier seen at the actor’s Mumbai residence, where security was tightened and barricades placed near the entrance. By the afternoon, several prominent personalities, including Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Agastya Nanda, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan, had gathered at the Pawan Hans Cremation Centre to pay their respects. Dharmendra’s wife, Hema Malini, and daughter, Esha Deol, were also present.
The veteran star had been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on November 12 after treatment for health complications. At the time, Dr Rajiv Sharma had said he had gone home “fully satisfied” with the care received.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief at the actor’s passing, calling him a figure who had defined Indian cinema through versatility and an unmistakable warmth. He said Dharmendra was “an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played”, adding that his simplicity and humanity endeared him to generations of filmgoers.
Filmmaker Karan Johar was among the first to confirm the news publicly. “It is an end of an ERA….. a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence … he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema,” he wrote, recalling the actor’s generosity and warmth. “There will always be the one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much.”
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tribute, describing Dharmendra as a “precious star who ruled over the hearts of cinema lovers for decades”.
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in Punjab’s Ludhiana district in 1935, he arrived in Mumbai driven by a childhood love for cinema. His debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere made little impact, but Shola Aur Shabnam the following year set him on the path to stardom. A string of successes in the 1960s, including Anpadh, Bandini, Kaajal and Phool Aur Patthar, cemented him as a romantic hero with striking screen presence.
His transformation into an action star in the 1970s and 80s broadened his appeal, leading to classics such as Dharam Veer, Jugnu, Charas and the timeless Sholay. His later years saw him embrace supporting roles with the same sincerity, most recently drawing praise for his performance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023).
Dharmendra is survived by his first wife, Prakash Kaur; his second wife, Hema Malini; and his children, Sunny, Bobby, Vijeta, Ajeita, Esha and Ahana. His final completed film is Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, while his next, Ikkis, is slated for release later this year.
Also read: Dharmendra discharged from hospital; to be treated at home
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