Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra, fondly known as the He-Man of Indian cinema, passed away early this morning in Mumbai. He was 89. A rare blend of charm, strength and sensitivity, Dharmendra shaped an era where action met emotion and remains one of the most beloved stars in Hindi film history.
A journey from talent hunt to stardom
Dharmendra’s entry into films began after a Filmfare talent hunt encouraged him to move to Mumbai and try his luck as a lead actor. His first break came with Arjun Hingorani’s Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960), followed by his first big hit Shola Aur Shabnam (1961).
Through the 1960s and 70s he proved his versatility — from emotional dramas to mass entertainers — appearing in films that are now part of cinema folklore:
- Anpadh (1962)
- Bandini (1963)
- Haqeeqat
- Sholay
- Chupke Chupke
- Satyakam
- Anupama
- Dharam Veer
- The Burning Train
On-screen chemistry and personal life
His chemistry with Hema Malini — both on and off screen — became one of Bollywood’s most enduring love stories. Beyond the spotlight, Dharmendra was admired for his humility, warmth and poetic soul. He is survived by his wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, daughters Esha and Ahana Deol, and his grandchildren.
Legacy and reaction
As condolences and tributes pour in from across the film fraternity and fans nationwide, many are calling his passing the end of a golden chapter in Indian cinema. Dharmendra’s energy, dialogue delivery and screen presence influenced generations of actors, and his films will continue to speak for his legacy.
His talent, generosity and larger-than-life persona will remain etched in every frame of Bollywood history.
