Dharmendra Passes Away at 89 in Mumbai

Veteran actor Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring icons, passed away at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89 after a brief illness. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, where his charm, versatility, and towering presence shaped generations of popular filmmaking.

Final Days and Industry Tributes

The actor had recently been discharged from a Mumbai hospital where he had been under treatment since early November. An ambulance was seen leaving his home on 24 November, signalling the sombre news that soon drew film personalities to a crematorium in Juhu. Filmmaker Karan Johar publicly confirmed the demise, describing Dharmendra as an irreplaceable figure whose warmth and generosity touched everyone in the industry.

A Career Spanning Six Decades

Across more than 300 films, Dharmendra crafted an enviable body of work. His range included romantic dramas, comedies, and action films. From early successes in the 1960s to mass entertainers of later decades, he remained a reliable screen presence. His final film, “Ikkis”, is scheduled for release later next year, marking a poignant posthumous appearance in cinema.

Iconic Roles and Cultural Impact

His portrayal of Veeru in the 1975 classic “Sholay” stands among the most beloved performances in Indian film history. He also delivered memorable roles in “Phool Aur Patthar”, “Chupke Chupke”, “Dharam Veer”, and “Hukumat”. His celebrated dance numbers, rugged persona, and effortless charm secured him a wide fan base across generations, making him one of Bollywood’s most recognisable stars.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Dharmendra was born on 8 December 1935 in Nasrali, Punjab.
• He debuted in 1960 with “Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere”.
• He received the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
• His final film, “Ikkis”, is slated for release on 25 December 2025.

Family and Personal Legacy

Dharmendra is survived by his family, including his wives Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his six children, among them actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. His passing leaves a deep void in Hindi cinema, where his presence defined stardom for more than half a century.