“He-Man” Dharmendra No More; Nation Pays Tribute

MUMBAI— Veteran Hindi film actor Dharmendra Deol, widely celebrated as Bollywood’s original “He-Man,” passed away on Monday at the age of 89 at a private hospital in south Mumbai. Hospital authorities at Breach Candy Hospital confirmed that the actor died peacefully at 2:45 pm, following a steady deterioration in his health over the past two days.

Dharmendra had been admitted earlier this month due to age-related complications and respiratory distress, according to sources familiar with his treatment. His family was by his side during his final moments.

The actor is survived by his wives Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, daughters Vijeta, Ajeita, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol, as well as several grandchildren.

His passing comes weeks after false rumours of his demise circulated on social media on November 11, prompting clarifications from his family. At the time, Esha Deol and Hema Malini had urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, highlighting the emotional toll such speculation takes on families.

Nation Pays Tribute

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and several political leaders expressed grief over Dharmendra’s death. Modi described him as a “cultural icon whose warmth, simplicity, and powerful performances touched generations,” noting that his loss leaves “an irreplaceable void” in Indian cinema.

A Six-Decade Career That Shaped Hindi Cinema

With more than 300 films to his credit over six decades, Dharmendra emerged as one of Bollywood’s most bankable and versatile actors. Known for his rugged charm and action-oriented roles in the 1960s and 70s, he also excelled in comedy and romance—an uncommon range for leading men of his era.

Among his most celebrated works are Sholay (1975), Chupke Chupke (1975), Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973), and Deewaar (1975), which cemented his place in Hindi cinema history. In 2012, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour.

Industry Mourns an Icon

Dharmendra’s last rites were performed at the Oshiwara crematorium, attended by close family members and leading figures from the film industry. Actors Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Ranveer Singh, and filmmakers Subhash Ghai and Ramesh Sippy were among those who paid their respects.

The Hindi film industry announced a day of mourning, with several productions halting shoots in honour of the late actor.

His final screen appearance was in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023), directed by Karan Johar, where he reunited with his long-time co-star Shabana Azmi in a widely praised performance.

As news of his death spread, fans gathered outside his Juhu residence and the hospital, remembering the actor for his “Garam Dharam” charisma, iconic dialogue delivery, and warmth that transcended screen and generations.

For millions of Indians, Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema.