Veteran actor Dharmendra Singh Deol, affectionately known as Bollywood’s 'He-Man' and Dharam Paaji, passed away earlier today at the age of 89. The legendary star breathed his last at his residence after battling respiratory complications.
He had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month as his condition worsened. His family, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, daughter Esha Deol, and Hema Malini, had been visiting him regularly during his hospital stay.
Top Bollywood personalities had also arrived to check on the revered actor. Earlier, false reports about his death had spread panic among fans, prompting his family to publicly dismiss the rumours.
Even as he continued treatment, Dharmendra was discharged on November 12, but his health remained fragile. The news of his passing has sent a wave of grief across Mumbai, Pune, and the rest of the country, with fans, colleagues, and admirers expressing deep shock and sorrow.
Dharmendra’s career, which began in 1960, transformed Hindi cinema. Known for his remarkable versatility, he moved effortlessly between romance, comedy and action. His iconic role as Veeru in Sholay remains one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated performances.
He delivered memorable roles in Bandini, Anupama, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Dharam Veer, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and Pratigya, films that continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.
Over six decades, he acted in more than 300 films and earned millions of fans for his charm and powerful on-screen presence. His contributions were recognised with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
Dharmendra was last seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) and also received acclaim for his warm performance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. His upcoming film Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda, will now stand as his final appearance on screen.
The nation mourns the loss of a true legend, an actor whose simplicity, strength, and cinematic brilliance made him one of India’s most loved stars.
