He-Man of Indian Cinema Passes Away in Mumbai
Legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, affectionately known as the “He-Man” of Indian cinema, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The news was confirmed by a spokesperson from the actor’s family, sending shockwaves through the Indian film industry and leaving millions of fans worldwide in deep mourning.
Dharmendra had been receiving treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. After his discharge, Dharmendra remained under medical supervision at his Juhu residence, spending his final days surrounded by family. He had returned home following more than 10 days in the hospital, where he battled age-related health complications, including respiratory issues.
Illustrious Career Spanning Six Decades
Dharmendra started his acting career with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960, and throughout his career spanning decades, the veteran star appeared in more than 300 films across different genres. Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most commercially successful film stars in Indian cinema history.
The Seeta Aur Geeta actor gained recognition with a supporting negative role in the 1964 film Aaye Milan Ki Bela and appeared in the patriotic film Haqeeqat.
His breakthrough came in the mid-1960s with films like Phool Aur Patthar, establishing him as a leading man who could effortlessly balance action, romance, and drama.
His iconic performance in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay alongside Amitabh Bachchan cemented his status as Bollywood’s beloved ‘He-Man’, a title that would define his career for decades. The film became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.
Recent Work and Final Film
Dharmendra continued acting, proving that age is just a number. Dharmendra’s last appearance was in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon, released in February 2024. His performance in the 2023 film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani directed by Karan Johar earned particular acclaim, with his tender rendition of “Abhi Na Jao Chhodkar” reminding audiences of his enduring romantic appeal.
Dharmendra will appear posthumously in the biographical war drama Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan. The film also stars Agastya Nanda, grandson of Dharmendra’s Sholay co-star Amitabh Bachchan. The film, scheduled for release on December 25, 2025, is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal and centers on the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
Health Struggles in Final Months
In 2025, Dharmendra underwent a corneal transplant after doctors found damage to the cornea of his left eye. On October 31, he went to Breach Candy Hospital due to breathing difficulties. Doctors briefly admitted him to the ICU for observation, then stabilized him and discharged him.
On November 10, 2025, Dharmendra returned to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai with respiratory issues. After more than 10 days of treatment, doctors discharged him, and he continued receiving care at home until he passed away on Monday morning.
The actor had fallen victim to a death hoax just days before his actual passing, prompting his family and daughter Esha Deol to slam the media for spreading false information. The premature reports made the confirmation of his death all the more devastating for fans who had been praying for his recovery.
Final Rites and Industry Mourning
Sunny Deol performed the last rites while Amitabh Bachchan and top stars reached the crematorium to bid farewell. The funeral was held at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, where hundreds of industry colleagues, friends, and fans gathered to pay their final respects.
Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Kareena Kapoor, arrived at the crematorium to support the grieving family and honor the legendary actor. The emotional gathering reflected Dharmendra’s deep connections across multiple generations of the film industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled Dharmendra’s death on X (formerly Twitter), calling it “the end of an era.” He described Dharmendra as “an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played.” Modi added that Dharmendra’s diverse roles “struck a chord with countless people.” He also said that Dharmendra’s contribution to Indian cinema would never be forgotten.