Bollywood Shattered: Dharmendra Passes Away at 89, An Era Comes to an End

Indian cinema is grieving the loss of one of its greatest icons. Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, revered across generations and beloved as the industry’s original “He-Man”, has passed away at the age of 89, according to media reports. 

The news has plunged the film fraternity and millions of fans into mourning, triggering an outpouring of grief outside his Mumbai residence and at the Pawan Hans Crematorium.

Family and Industry Icons Rush to Pay Respects

Visuals from outside Dharmendra’s Juhu home on Monday showed a deeply distraught Sunny Deol arriving to be with the family. Esha Deol, visibly emotional, was also seen entering the residence without speaking to the waiting media. Hema Malini is believed to be inside with the family as they await formal medical confirmation.

Crowds of anxious fans have gathered outside the premises, seeking verified information amid a flood of unconfirmed social media posts. Dharmendra had recently returned home after treatment for breathlessness at Breach Candy Hospital, but his health reportedly worsened suddenly on Thursday morning, requiring urgent medical attention.

Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan Arrive at Pawan Hans Crematorium

Shortly after the news broke, Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan were among the first prominent personalities to reach the Pawan Hans Crematorium. Aamir Khan’s vehicle was seen slowly making its way through the swelling crowd outside the venue.

Esha Deol, wearing a simple white suit with her head covered, was later seen arriving at the crematorium, holding back tears as she hurried inside.

Karan Johar’s Heartfelt Tribute

Filmmaker Karan Johar shared an emotional note calling Dharmendra “the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema.” He wrote that the actor’s warmth, charm, and extraordinary screen presence shaped an entire era.
“It is the end of an ERA,” Johar said, adding that Dharmendra’s blessings and kindness “will be missed more than words can describe.”

A Career That Defined Hindi Cinema

Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Punjab’s Nasrali village, he entered films with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960). Stardom followed quickly through acclaimed performances in classics such as Anupama (1966), Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Aaye Din Bahar Ke, and his comedic masterclass in Chupke Chupke.

The actor’s versatility allowed him to seamlessly glide from romance to heavy-duty action. Films like Dharam Veer, Hukumat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and the evergreen Dream Girl showcased his range, while his role as Veeru in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay became an unforgettable cultural milestone.

Even in recent years, the actor continued to charm audiences with appearances in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024).

In 2012, Dharmendra was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.

A Family That Spans Generations of Stardom

Dharmendra is survived by his wives Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and their children — Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. His sons Sunny and Bobby built successful acting careers, often crediting their father as their inspiration.

Earlier This Month: Family Slammed Rumours

The family had recently expressed anguish when false death rumours circulated online on November 11. At the time, Esha Deol and Hema Malini condemned the misinformation, urging the media to act responsibly as Dharmendra was still under treatment.

He was then on ventilator support at Breach Candy Hospital under the supervision of senior cardiologist Dr. Dev Pahlajani.

End of an Era

As the film industry gathers to bid farewell to the man fondly remembered as Garam Dharam, tributes continue to pour in for the actor whose charisma, iconic songs like Yamla Pagla Deewana, powerful on-screen persona, and unmatched warmth made him a legend.

Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of an era for Hindi cinema, leaving behind a legacy that remains etched in the heart of Indian film history.

Also Read: Amid False Death Reports, Dharmendra Battles for Life — Family Slams Irresponsible Media Rumours