Bollywood legend Dharmendra passes away at the age of 89 after a prolonged illness. Known as Hindi cinema’s ‘He-Man’, Dharmendra rose from humble beginnings as a headmaster’s son to become one of India’s most beloved and enduring film icons.
Veteran actor Dharmendra’s admission to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital had raised concerns about his health. Amid growing speculation, several TV reports claimed he passed away at 89 after a long illness. However, daughter Esha Deol has dismissed these rumours as false.
Reports Say Dharmendra Passed Away, But Esha Deol Refutes Death Claims
A few days ago, concern over veteran actor Dharmendra’s health surfaced after he was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for what was initially described as a routine check-up. His wife Hema Malini and sons Sunny and Bobby Deol were seen visiting him. Rumours that the actor was on ventilator support spread online but were quickly denied by family sources. On Monday, Shah Rukh Khan and his son Aryan Khan also paid him a visit, followed by Salman Khan. Later, Esha Deol shared on social media that her father was stable and recovering, requesting privacy and thanking fans for their prayers.
Dharmendra’s Early Days: A Punjab Boy Who Became Bollywood’s He-Man
Born in Punjab, Dharmendra developed an early love for cinema. His life changed after winning the Filmfare New Talent Contest, which took him to Mumbai to pursue acting. He made his debut in 1960 with Arjun Hingorani’s Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Although he initially appeared in modest roles, his talent soon shone through, leading to a major breakthrough with Phool Aur Patthar opposite Meena Kumari — a film that catapulted him to stardom overnight.
The Many Shades of Dharmendra on Screen
Over his celebrated career, Dharmendra demonstrated exceptional versatility. In Satyakam, he played a man of strong moral principles, while Anupama highlighted his emotional depth. He showcased his comedic talent in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Chupke Chupke and proved his action hero credentials in Mera Gaon Mera Desh and Jugnu. His role as Veeru in Sholay remains one of the most iconic and beloved characters in Indian cinema.
A Legacy Carried Forward
Even in his later years, Dharmendra stayed active in the film industry. He shared the screen with his sons in Apne (2007), a movie that showcased the warmth of their real-life family bond. In recent years, he continued working on films and was reportedly involved in projects such as Apne 2 and a romantic drama, until health concerns slowed him down.
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Javed Akhtar Honour Dharmendra’s Legacy
Her remarks followed tributes from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and writer Javed Akhtar. Akhtar tweeted, “With Dharmendra Ji, an era of Indian cinema ends. He embodied both strength and gentleness, dignity and humility, charm and power. Anyone who studies his work will see he was an actor for all seasons. A kind-hearted and polite person, he will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to the Deol family.”
ABOUT Dharmendra
Dharmendra, born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, is a veteran Bollywood actor, producer, and former politician, widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most iconic figures. Over a career spanning six decades and more than 200 films, he has left an indelible mark on the industry, earning admiration for both his talent and screen presence.
Dharmendra first gained prominence in the mid-1960s with films like Ayee Milan Ki Bela and Phool Aur Patthar. Known for his charisma, he was fondly called “He-Man” and later “Garam Dharam” for his dynamic performances. His career soared through the late 1960s to the 1980s with hits such as Ankhen, Sholay, and Seeta Aur Geeta, showcasing his versatility in romantic, action, and dramatic roles.
In later years, Dharmendra transitioned to character roles in films including Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Life in a… Metro, and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. He received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012, cementing his legacy. Beyond cinema, he served as a Member of Parliament representing Bikaner for the BJP, leaving a lasting impact on both film and public life.
Dharmendra AWARDS
| Award | Category | Year | Film / Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filmfare Awards | Best Actor (Nominated) | 1969 | Phool Aur Patthar |
| Filmfare Awards | Best Actor (Nominated) | 1970 | Rakhwala |
| Filmfare Awards | Best Actor (Nominated) | 1973 | Yaadon Ki Baaraat |
| Filmfare Awards | Best Actor (Nominated) | 1975 | Chupke Chupke |
| Filmfare Awards | Best Actor (Nominated) | 1979 | Sholay |
| Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award | Lifetime Achievement | 1997 | For outstanding contribution to Indian cinema |
| Padma Bhushan | Civilian Honour | 2012 | For contribution to Indian cinema |
| Sansui Viewers’ Choice Awards | Best Actor (Critics) | 2001 | Tell Me O Kkhuda |
| Zee Cine Awards | Lifetime Achievement Award | 2006 | Recognising career in Indian cinema |
| Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) | Cinema Legend Award | 2010 | For outstanding contribution to Indian cinema |