Strength, charm, and excellence are etched in the legacy of Dharmendra
Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra passed away on Monday at the age of 89, leaving the Indian film industry in mourning. The actor, who had recently been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai due to breathing complications, was discharged after signs of recovery, but his condition reportedly deteriorated again before his death.
The legendary star was said to have been placed on a ventilator, and news of his passing prompted an outpouring of grief across the film fraternity.
Soon after the announcement, Dharmendra’s mortal remains were taken to the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle, where several prominent figures arrived to bid farewell. Among those seen at the crematorium were Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, and other senior members of the industry.
Karan Johar shared a heartfelt tribute, calling Dharmendra’s passing “the end of an era” and remembering him as a towering presence in cinema whose warmth, humility and grace defined generations of Bollywood.
Dharmendra’s wife Hema Malini had previously assured the media during one of his earlier hospital visits that the actor was stable. In his later years, Dharmendra spent most of his time at his Khandala farmhouse, away from worsening pollution levels in Mumbai.
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra entered Hindi cinema after winning a nationwide talent contest in 1958 — the same competition that would later introduce Rajesh Khanna to films. His rise was swift, marked by striking looks, emotional intensity and unmatched screen charisma.
Over a storied career spanning more than six decades, he delivered landmark roles in classics including:
• Phool Aur Patthar – the film that established him as a leading star
• Sholay – where his portrayal of Veeru became immortal
• Chupke Chupke – showcasing his effortless comic timing
• Yaadon Ki Baaraat – strengthening his action-hero legacy
Dharmendra was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in recognition of his impact on cinema and culture.
As tributes continue to pour in nationwide, fans and industry colleagues alike remember him not only as a superstar but as one of Bollywood’s most beloved human personalities.