Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, revered as one of the greatest screen legends of Indian cinema, passed away on Monday, November 24, at his residence in Mumbai following age-related health complications. He was 89. The actor breathed his last surrounded by his family, after weeks of fluctuating medical condition. His demise marks the end of an era that profoundly shaped the identity and evolution of Hindi cinema over more than six decades.
Dharmendra had been struggling with health issues since the beginning of the month and was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital for treatment. He was discharged on November 12 and continued receiving intensive care at home. The official family statement issued through the hospital had urged media and fans to refrain from speculation and respect privacy, expressing gratitude for public support and prayers. However, despite medical care, his health deteriorated sharply over the weekend, leading to his passing.
Final Journey: Funeral Held in Mumbai with Tight Security
Dharmendra’s mortal remains were taken to the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle on Monday afternoon, where the funeral was conducted under heavy police presence to manage the growing crowd of fans and media. His family including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and grandsons Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol supervised the final arrangements. Hema Malini, who stood by her husband throughout his health battle, arrived at the crematorium with dignified composure, while Esha Deol, visibly heartbroken, attended alongside close relatives.
The emotional atmosphere was evident as industry colleagues and public personalities arrived to pay their respects. According to eyewitnesses, Sunny Deol was seen deeply distressed, requesting the media to show restraint and sensitivity. In a moment that moved many, Sunny told photographers, “Aap logon ko sharam aani chahiye… Aapke ghar mein maa-baap hain, bachche hain…” pleading for privacy for the grieving family.
Leading figures of Indian cinema including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, and Dharmendra’s close co-stars visited the residence earlier in the day, expressing personal loss and admiration for the veteran actor who inspired generations.
A Celebrated Career That Defined the Soul of Indian Cinema
Born Dharam Singh Deol in 1935, Dharmendra emerged as a cultural icon who ruled the silver screen with effortless versatility across romance, action, comedy, and drama. Often known as the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’, he delivered some of Indian cinema’s most memorable performances. His iconic films include Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Raja Jani, Charas, Jugnu, Dost, Pratiggya, Dharam Veer, Dream Girl, and the historic blockbuster Sholay, where his portrayal of Veeru became immortal.
Over the course of his career, Dharmendra acted in more than 300 films, earning not just commercial success but widespread emotional admiration from audiences across India and abroad. His powerful screen presence, grounded persona, and natural acting style earned him a unique place in cinematic history—one where he was loved equally by critics and masses.
Recent Updates: Last Film ‘Ikkis’ Set for Release on December 25
Hours before news of Dharmendra’s passing became public, the makers of his last film ‘Ikkis’, directed by Sriram Raghavan, revealed his character poster on social media with the caption:
“Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations.”
Dharmendra plays the father of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a Param Vir Chakra awardee. The film stars Agastya Nanda and is scheduled to release on December 25, making it Dharmendra’s final cinematic appearance. Earlier this year, Dharmendra was seen in “Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya” in a memorable role that was widely appreciated.
Plans were also underway to celebrate Dharmendra’s 90th birthday in December, and family members reportedly had begun preparations. However, fate intervened, turning celebration into grief.
Condolences Pour In Nationwide
Tributes from political, film, sports, and cultural sectors continue to flood social media.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences, stating that Dharmendra’s contribution will remain “etched in the heart of India”.
Actors including Akshay Kumar, Kajol, Madhuri Dixit, Ajay Devgn, and Raveena Tandon expressed sorrow and admiration for the beloved star.
Many fans gathered outside Dharmendra’s Bandra residence to catch a final glimpse of their hero, recalling memories from a cinematic journey that spanned three generations.
End of an Era: Legacy That Will Live Forever
Dharmendra’s passing marks the departure of one of the last giants of Indian classic cinema. His decades-long career created an unparalleled emotional connection with audiences through sincerity, humility, and dedication. Beyond cinema, he is remembered as a warm and humane personality, deeply loved by colleagues and fans alike.
As India mourns, the void he leaves behind is immeasurable yet his work, charm, and spirit will endure forever through his films and through the hearts of millions.
