Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, affectionately known as the He-Man of Indian Cinema, passed away early this morning in Mumbai at the age of 89.
A rare combination of charm, strength, and sensitivity, Dharmendra defined an era where action seamlessly met emotion.
His on-screen and off-screen chemistry with Hema Malini remains one of Bollywood’s most celebrated love stories.
Dharmendra’s journey in cinema began when he won a talent hunt organized by Filmfare, prompting him to move to Mumbai and pursue a career as a leading actor.
He made his acting debut in Arjun Hingorani’s Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960), but it was Shola Aur Shabnam (1961) that became his first major hit. He continued to shine with memorable performances in Anpadh (1962) and Bimal Roy’s classic Bandini (1963). Over the years, he delivered timeless films including Haqeeqat, Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Anupama, Dharam Veer, and The Burning Train, each role reflecting a new dimension of his talent.
Off-screen, Dharmendra was admired for his humility, warmth, and poetic soul.
He is survived by his wife, Hema Malini; sons Sunny and Bobby Deol; daughters Esha and Ahana Deol; and his grandchildren.
As tributes pour in from across the industry, Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of a golden era in Indian cinema.
