Legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, celebrated for his magnetic screen presence and dubbed the “He-Man” of Indian cinema, has died at the age of 89. He passed away on November 24, 2025, leaving an irreplaceable void in the Indian film industry.
The news of his death triggered an outpouring of grief across India, with fans, political leaders, and fellow actors remembering a man whose career shaped the trajectory of Hindi cinema for more than six decades. With over 300 films to his credit, Dharmendra was admired for his effortless versatility and unforgettable performances in classics such as Sholay, Satyakam, Chupke Chupke, and Phool Aur Patthar.
Tributes poured in almost immediately. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his passing as a national loss, saying, “The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played.”
Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan called him “a brother and a pillar of warmth and generosity,” while Salman Khan said Dharmendra “defined heroism for generations.” Aamir Khan added that the late actor “left behind a legacy of sincerity, humility, and unforgettable performances.”
Dharmendra’s final rites were held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, where a crowd of family members, industry colleagues, and emotional fans gathered to bid him farewell. His wife, Hema Malini, along with their daughter, Esha Deol, were present as the legendary actor was laid to rest.
As Bollywood mourns, one sentiment echoes across the industry: Dharmendra was not just a star, he was an era.
