On Monday, November 24, 2025, Bollywood lost one of its most beloved icons. Veteran actor Dharmendra, affectionately known as the “He-Man” of Hindi cinema, passed away at his home in Mumbai, just weeks before what would have been his 90th birthday on December 8.
Final Days: Hospitalization and Home Care
Dharmendra’s health had been fragile in recent weeks. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on October 31, reportedly due to breathlessness. By November 10, reports emerged that he was on ventilator support, though his family maintained a restrained public posture.
On November 12, doctors discharged him from the hospital, and his treatment continued at home under medical supervision. His physician, Dr. Pratit Samdani, confirmed that the family had decided in favor of home care, and asked the public to respect their privacy.
The Loss and the Legacy
Dharmendra’s passing has left an unmistakable void in Indian cinema. In a heartfelt tribute, filmmaker Karan Johar described it as “an end of an era,” calling Dharmendra “a bonafide legend … defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history.” The actor’s warmth, infectious energy, and generosity were not just on screen but off it – Johar added that “he was the best human being … his hug and incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe.”
At his last rites, many from the film fraternity came together to pay their respects.
Life and Career: A Storied Run
- Born: December 8, 1935 (he would have turned 90 shortly).
- Career span: Over six decades, starring in more than 300 films.
- Breakthrough: His debut came with Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere (1960).
- Iconic Films: Among his many memorable works are Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar, Dharam Veer, Hukumat, and Apne.
- Honors: In 2012, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor.
- Final Film: His last appearance will be in Ikkis, a war drama directed by Sriram Raghavan, slated for release on December 25, 2025, co-starring Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda.
Family and Surviving Legacy
Dharmendra is survived by his two wives — Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini — and six children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Ahana Deol, and his daughters Ajeeta and Vijeta. His bond with his family, both on and off screen, was deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike.
Reactions & Tributes
- Karan Johar: His emotional note highlighted not just Dharmendra’s star power, but his warmth, love, and humility.
- Film Community: A host of Bollywood luminaries, including those who worked with him across generations, gathered at his cremation to pay tribute.
- Fans: Across social media, fans expressed sorrow, gratitude, and nostalgia — sharing memories of his iconic performances, his charisma, and his kindness.
A Quiet Farewell, But a Lasting Impact
Though his final days were marked by illness, Dharmendra’s legacy is anything but dimmed. He wasn’t just a larger-than-life screen hero; he was a pillar of grace, resilience, and generosity. His departure may close one chapter, but for Indian cinema, his story remains eternally alive.
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