Dharmendra passes away at 89: Bollywood loses a legendary icon just days before his 90th birthday

Dharmendra passes away at 89, leaving the Indian film industry and millions of fans grieving the loss of one of Bollywood’s most loved stars. The veteran actor breathed his last on November 24 at his residence in Mumbai, just days before his 90th birthday on December 8.

Early in the morning, concerns about his health escalated when an ambulance escorted by heavy security arrived at his Juhu home. Family members — including Esha Deol and Hema Malini — were later seen at the crematorium, maintaining privacy during the difficult moments. As of now, the family has not issued an official statement, but sources confirm that the actor had been battling health complications for weeks.

Dharmendra had recently been discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he was admitted in late October after he complained of breathlessness. Although he returned home and was recovering, this became his second health scare within a month. According to information received by Bharat Details, the actor died peacefully at home on Monday morning.

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A career that shaped Indian cinema

Born in 1935 in a small village in Ludhiana, Dharmendra entered the film world in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Through the 1960s, he established himself with roles in Anpadh, Bandini, Aaya Sawan Jhoom Ke, and Anupama, portraying characters that resonated with the everyday Indian.

His breakthrough came with the 1965 war classic Haqeeqat followed by the 1966 hit Phool Aur Patthar, which turned him into a bankable leading star. Over the decades, he delivered some of Hindi cinema’s most iconic films including Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Chupke Chupke, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and Yaadon Ki Baaraat. His effortless shift from romance to action earned him the title “He-Man of Bollywood.”

Dharmendra’s versatility allowed him to flourish even in character roles. He appeared in films such as Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Johnny Gaddaar, Apne, and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. He also starred alongside his sons Sunny and Bobby Deol in the Yamla Pagla Deewana franchise.

His final film and cinematic farewell

Audiences last saw Dharmendra earlier this year in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, where he appeared alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His final film, Ikkis, a war drama directed by Sriram Raghavan and featuring Agastya Nanda, is scheduled to release on December 25. The film will offer fans one last chance to witness his presence on screen.

A deeply personal loss for the Deol family

Dharmendra is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, second wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and daughters Esha and Ahana Deol. As the news spread, tributes began pouring in from across the country. Prominent film personalities including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel had visited the hospital earlier this month to check on him during his treatment.

Family members have requested privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

A legacy etched forever

From romantic hero to action superstar to respected elder statesman of cinema, Dharmendra’s journey remains one of the most celebrated in Bollywood history. His contribution to Indian films, his warmth, and his enduring connection with the audience ensure that his legacy will continue to live on.

As fans await the release of Ikkis, his final film stands as a fitting farewell to a man whose work spanned generations.