The legend is gone. Dharmendra, the veteran actor, Bollywood’s beloved ‘He-Man’, passed away at 89 at his home in Mumbai today, Monday, November 24. That happened. And then a giant void opened up in Indian cinema.
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He had been battling respiratory issues, having been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month. He leaves behind a remarkable cinematic legacy that stretched across six decades.
The Legacy: From Sholay to the Farm
Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol started his career back in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He became a superstar because he could do it all:
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The intense, angry roles: Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Pratiggya.
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The comic genius: Chupke Chupke.
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The ultimate action hero: Veeru in Sholay.
He was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2012. His production, Ghayal, starring Sunny Deol, even won a National Award. He won many Best Actor trophies. Let’s be real, his place in history is locked.
The Final Scene and The Family
Even at 89, the thing is, he was active. He was sharing videos on Instagram of himself driving a tractor, offering farming tips, promoting an organic, simple life. His final on-screen appearance was in the 2024 rom-com Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.
His final, unreleased film, Ikkis, is set to hit screens on December 25, 2025. This will be the last time we see the He-Man on the big screen.
Dharmendra is survived by his two wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and six children: actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol, along with Ajeeta and Vijeta.
It’s an ongoing outpouring of grief and respect across the industry.
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