Mumbai: Veteran film icon Dharmendra, celebrated across generations as the ‘He-Man of Bollywood,’ passed away on Monday morning at his residence in Mumbai after a brief illness. He was 89.
The legendary actor, whose career spanned over six decades and included classics like Sholay, Satyakam, and Phool Aur Patthar, had been discharged from Breach Candy hospital just 12 days prior to his demise. His death comes weeks before his 90th birthday, which was slated for December 8, 2025.
Final Farewell in Mumbai
The film industry and national leaders converged in Mumbai to bid farewell to the superstar. Dharmendra’s last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium.
The cremation ceremony saw the presence of numerous film fraternity members, including his wife Hema Malini, co-stars like Amitabh Bachchan, and a host of prominent actors such as Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Govinda, who arrived to offer their final respects to the Deol family.
Tributes Pour in from Across India
Condolences poured in from the highest echelons of politics and cinema, highlighting the actor’s universal appeal. Political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extended their tributes on social media.
Cinema legends also expressed their sorrow. Kamal Haasan wrote that Indian cinema had lost one of its kindest icons, while Zeenat Aman remembered him as a “jewel from the Hindi film industry” whose “down to earth demeanour” was a warm comfort on set. Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar also penned an emotional note, stating, “Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai.”
In light of the passing, the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) announced the cancellation of all on-stage events for a day at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) as a mark of respect.
Dharmendra’s final screen appearance is expected to be in Sriram Raghavan’s much-anticipated war drama Ikkis, which is scheduled for release on December 25, 2025. The film icon leaves behind a towering legacy defined by his versatility, honesty in performance, and unparalleled warmth.
