Farewell to Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’: Dharmendra Passes at 89

The Indian film fraternity and millions of fans worldwide were left in shock on November 24, 2025, as legendary actor Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 at his residence in Mumbai. Known as Bollywood’s original ‘He-Man’ and one of the most beloved stars of Indian cinema, Dharmendra leaves behind an unmatched legacy built over more than six decades in the industry. His passing marks the end of an era, as tributes continue to pour in from fans and industry leaders alike, including filmmaker Karan Johar. Fondly called “Bollywood’s He-Man”, he was not just a beloved actor but also a symbol of strength, charm, and resilience. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.

Health Update Before His Passing

In the days leading up to his death, Dharmendra had been battling a prolonged illness. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital last week and later moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to manage his condition. On Monday afternoon, his health deteriorated further, prompting close family members to visit. He was put on a ventilator, but unfortunately, could not recover.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

• Born: Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in Ludhiana, Punjab.
• First Film: Dharmendra made his cinematic debut in 1960 with the film “Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.” Although his career started modestly, his rugged good looks and powerful screen presence soon made him a household name.

Dharmendra’s early films established him as a rising star in the industry, but it wasn’t until later that he cemented his status as a megastar.

Iconic Roles and Career Milestones

Bollywood’s He-Man: Dharmendra earned the title of “He-Man” for his roles in action-packed films where he portrayed characters with unwavering strength, courage, and heroism.

Landmark Films,

• Yaadon Ki Baarat (1973) – A pathbreaking film that combined drama, music, and emotional depth.
• Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971) – A defining film that showcased his dynamic acting skills.
• Phool Aur Patthar (1966) – One of his earlier hits that helped him gain a strong foothold in the industry.
• Betaab (1983) – A movie that introduced his son, Sunny Deol, to the world of cinema.
• Ghayal (1990) – An action-packed film that earned him critical acclaim and solidified his place in Bollywood history.

Personal Life: A Man of Two Loves

Dharmendra’s personal life was equally eventful. He was married to Prakash Kaur in 1954, at the age of 19, before entering the film industry. Later, he fell in love with and married actress Hema Malini, creating one of Bollywood’s most iconic couples.

Children: Dharmendra’s legacy lives on through his children, who have also made a significant mark in the film industry. His sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol are well-known actors, while his daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol have also been involved in acting and production. Dharmendra also had two other children, Ajeeta and Vijeta, from his first marriage.

Honours and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dharmendra received numerous accolades, including,

• Padma Bhushan (2012): One of the highest civilian awards from the Government of India.
• Filmfare Awards: Multiple nominations and wins for Best Actor, showcasing his enduring appeal.
• He was celebrated not only for his acting but also for his contribution to shaping the Indian film industry.

Legacy of Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’

Dharmendra’s contribution to Indian cinema spanned over five decades, earning him the title ‘He-Man of Bollywood’ for his iconic action roles. His performances resonated with audiences across generations, making him a household name and a symbol of Bollywood’s golden era.

He will be remembered not only for his on-screen presence but also for his dedication to the craft of acting and the warmth he brought to his characters. Dharmendra’s legacy continues to inspire actors and filmmakers alike.

Legacy and Last Appearance

Even at the age of 89, Dharmendra remained active on social media, where he shared insights into his life, health tips, and farming advice. His Instagram featured videos of him driving a tractor, tending to his farm, and imparting wisdom about living a simple, organic lifestyle.

Dharmendra’s final film appearance will be in “Ikkis,” set to release on December 25, 2025. This movie, expected to be a big release, will be a fitting tribute to his long and illustrious career in Bollywood.

Survived By

Dharmendra leaves behind a family that continues to carry his legacy forward. He is survived by his two wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and their children. The Deol family has been a cornerstone of Bollywood for generations, and Dharmendra’s death marks the end of a chapter for the Deol family and the industry as a whole.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Full Name: Dharmendra Deol
• Date of Death: 24th November 2025
• Age: 89 years
• Popular Films: Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke
• Nickname: He-Man of Bollywood
• Number of Films: Over 300
• Filmfare Award Winner and Padma Bhushan in 2012