Mumbai, November 11, 2025 – Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the "He-Man" of Indian cinema, has passed away at the age of 89. The legendary star breathed his last at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Tuesday morning. Dharmendra had been admitted to the hospital on November 1st and again on November 10th due to respiratory issues and age-related health complications.
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, Dharmendra was one of the most iconic figures in Hindi cinema. His career spanned over six decades, during which he starred in more than 300 films. He held the record for starring in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema.
Dharmendra made his acting debut in 1960 with "Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere". He gained commercial success with "Phool Aur Patthar" in 1965, and went on to deliver numerous blockbusters, including "Ankhen", "Seeta Aur Geeta", "Mera Gaon Mera Desh", and the iconic "Sholay". His performances in "Satyakam", "Chupke Chupke", and "The Burning Train" also garnered acclaim.
In his later career, Dharmendra appeared in character roles in award-winning movies. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor, in 2012. Beyond acting, Dharmendra also had a stint in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Bikaner from 2004 to 2009.
News of Dharmendra's passing has sent shockwaves through the Indian film industry. Last night, his son Sunny Deol was seen arriving at Breach Candy Hospital to check on his father. While the family initially stated that he was "stable and under observation" and requested privacy, his condition deteriorated. According to reports, his death was due to age-related health complications.
Dharmendra is survived by his wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and daughters Esha and Ahana Deol, along with Ajeeta and Vijeta. His loss marks the end of an era in Bollywood, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a lasting impact on Indian cinema.
Several Bollywood personalities, including his wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ameesha Patel, visited him at the hospital.
