Dharmendra: The He-Man Who Became India’s Cinematic Deity.
On 24 November 2025, Bollywood lost one of its most iconic figures: Dharmendra, who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. His death came just weeks before his 90th birthday, closing the chapter on a life that was nothing short of a legend.
Born as Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on 8 December 1935 in Nasrali, Punjab, he came from humble roots. His father, Kewal Krishan, was a school teacher. The road to stardom began when a young Dharmendra travelled to Bombay (now Mumbai) in search of his dreams — and won a Filmfare talent contest that opened the doors of Bollywood for him.
Dharmendra made his acting debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, but it was not an immediate box-office hit. Over the next few years, he proved his mettle, taking on a wide variety of roles: from romantic dramas like Ayee Milan Ki Bela to social melodramas like Satyakam.
By the late 1960s and early 1970s, Dharmendra was a force to reckon with. He broke out in Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971) as a righteous outlaw, and later charmed audiences in Seeta Aur Geeta (1972) alongside Hema Malini, with whom he struck a long-lasting personal bond. It was during this period that his versatility shone: he balanced action roles, comedy, and even dual roles with equal grace.
But perhaps his most enduring image is from Sholay (1975) — one of Indian cinema’s most monumental films — where he played Veeru, the easy-going, fearless sidekick to Amitabh Bachchan’s Jai. The film became a cultural phenomenon, and Dharmendra’s charisma, rugged looks, and effortless screen presence made him a household name.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Dharmendra acted in over 300 films. He was equally comfortable in lighthearted comedies — like Chupke Chupke — and intense dramas — such as Dharam Veer. His adaptability made him beloved by a wide audience, and he remained relevant even as the face of Bollywood changed.
Off screen, Dharmendra led a fascinating life. He was married to Prakash Kaur from a young age and later to actress Hema Malini, forming one of Hindi cinema’s most famous families. His sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol carried forward his legacy in the film industry. In recognition of his lifetime of work, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2012, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
Even in his later years, Dharmendra retained his rustic charm — often seen on social media tending his farm, driving a tractor, and sharing simple life lessons with his fans. His humility, warmth, and zest for life remained intact.
His final on-screen appearance was in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, and he was set to appear in Ikkis, scheduled for release in December 2025.
As the film world mourns, the void left by Dharmendra is immeasurable. He wasn’t just a star — he was an emotion, a symbol, a religion. For generations, he was “Dharam” — the He-Man, the dreamer, the man with the Greek-god looks, the family man with a heart of gold. His legacy will live on in the countless films he gave us and in the hearts of millions who cheered his “seeti-maar” dialogue, who sat captivated as he bared his soul on screen, and who found in him a hero for the ages.
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