Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra Krishan Deol has passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89, marking the end of a monumental chapter in Indian cinema.
His death has prompted an outpouring of grief across the nation, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi taking to X (Twitter) to call it the end of an era.
Dharmendra’s extraordinary six-decade career spanned more than 300 films, earning him a place as one of India’s most beloved screen stars.
He was best known for his role as Veeru in the 1975 classic Sholay, a performance that remains etched in Bollywood folklore.
With his muscular physique and rugged charm, he earned the nickname Bollywood’s original He-Man, and his versatility moving effortlessly between action, romance, comedy, and drama endeared him to generations of fans.
Born on December 8, 1935, in Ludhiana, Punjab, Dharmendra rose from humble beginnings. His breakthrough came in Bimal Roy’s Bandini (1963), which launched him into the upper echelons of Hindi cinema.
His on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini captivated audiences for decades, eventually blossoming into a real-life love story when they married in 1980.
Throughout his career, Dharmendra received numerous honors, recognizing his lasting contributions to Indian cinema.
As the industry and millions of fans mourn his loss, Dharmendra’s impact continues to resonate. He leaves behind a body of work that has not only entertained but also inspired.
