Dharmendra, a veteran Bollywood actor and among the most iconic and beloved faces of Indian cinema, died Monday at age 89 in his residence in Mumbai. It was on November 24, 2025. The news of Dharmendra Passes Away marked the end of the remarkable six-decade-long career that helped shape generations of Hindi film lovers and established him as one of the most enduring legends of the silver screen.
According to various media reports, Dharmendra’s health had remained fragile over the past few weeks following a hospitalization earlier this month. He was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital around mid-month after being treated for complications related to breathing. While the actor had shown improvement upon discharge, family sources and close aides had urged fans and media to avoid speculative stories, as the actor needed rest and continuous medical supervision at home.
Speculation peaked on November 24 when an ambulance was spotted outside his Juhu residence, along with increased security arrangements. Then, visuals of an ambulance leaving the building, along with increased activity near the Pawan Hans Crematorium, quickly fueled speculation regarding the actor’s condition. Reports started confirming the heartbreaking news of his demise within hours.
Born Dharam Singh Deol in 1935, Dharmendra was affectionately called the “He-Man of Bollywood” and went on to become one of the most bankable stars in the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s. He gave landmark performances in films such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Anupama, Seeta Aur Geeta, Dharam Veer, and Phool Aur Patthar, among many others. He was one of the most loved actors in Bollywood for his charm on-screen, versatility, and effortless command over action and comedy with ease.
During his later years, Dharmendra continued to be busy in films and occasionally made onscreen appearances that were welcomed with warmth and love. His last on-screen appearance is said to be in Ikkis by Sriram Raghavan, expected to hit the theaters in December 2025. The movie stars Agastya Nanda and was being publicized as one of the biggest comebacks of the veteran star after his earlier health scare.
Tributes have been pouring in from the film fraternity and his fans, with prominent actors, filmmakers, and public figures terming Dharmendra as a “pillar of Indian cinema” and “an artist whose contribution will remain unmatched.” Celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan reportedly visited him during his stay at the hospital, reflecting the deep respect he commanded across generations.
He is survived by his wife, Hema Malini; sons, Sunny and Bobby Deol; daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol; and a wide circle of grandchildren and extended family. His legacy will continue to shine bright across screens, hearts, and cinematic history as India mourns the loss of one of the biggest stars it has ever known
