Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra passed away at 89, leaving behind an extraordinary cinematic legacy. Tributes poured in from the President, Prime Minister, and top film stars as India mourns the loss of one of its most iconic and beloved actors.
Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra, one of India’s most adored and influential film personalities, passed away on Monday at the age of 89. His demise marks a monumental loss for Indian cinema and millions of admirers across the world. The legendary actor had been undergoing treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai, where he was admitted after experiencing severe breathing difficulties. Although he showed signs of recovery and was later discharged, his condition deteriorated again, and he was reportedly placed on a ventilator.
Dharmendra had been residing at his farmhouse in Khandala with his first wife, Prakash Kaur. He moved away from Mumbai recently due to rising pollution levels in the city, seeking a quieter and healthier environment. His passing comes at a time when the film industry is already grieving several recent losses, including actors Pankaj Dheer, Asrani, Satish Shah, and advertising icon Piyush Pandey, who died last month.
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra’s journey to stardom is one of Hindi cinema’s most inspiring stories. His entry into films began when he participated in a nationwide talent hunt conducted by Filmfare magazine in collaboration with Bimal Roy Productions in the late 1950s. Known for his striking good looks, natural charm, and screen magnetism even before entering films, Dharmendra won the contest in 1958. This victory launched his career and opened the doors to the world of Hindi cinema. The same talent initiative later discovered another megastar—Rajesh Khanna—further cementing its significance in Indian film history.
Dharmendra’s rise to fame was swift. Through the 1960s and 1970s, he became one of Bollywood’s most celebrated leading men, admired for his versatility across romance, action, drama, and comedy. His breakthrough performance in Phool Aur Patthar (1966) established him as a top-tier star, showcasing both his emotional depth and rugged screen presence. But it was his portrayal of Veeru in the cult classic Sholay (1975) that immortalized him in cinematic history. His witty dialogues, warm chemistry with co-stars, and effortless charisma made Veeru one of Bollywood’s most beloved characters.
Over the decades, Dharmendra starred in hundreds of films, cultivating a massive fan base and earning acclaim for his dedication, humility, and sincerity. His contributions to Indian cinema were recognized with several accolades, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the nation. President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow, describing Dharmendra as a “towering figure of Indian cinema.” In her message on X, she wrote, “The demise of veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Shri Dharmendra Ji is a great loss to Indian cinema. One of the most popular actors, he delivered numerous memorable performances during his decades-long illustrious career. As a towering figure of Indian cinema, he leaves behind a legacy which will continue to inspire young generations of artists. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid homage, calling Dharmendra’s death “the end of an era.” In his tribute, he said, “He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti.”
Bollywood stars rushed to pay their last respects at Pawan Hans crematorium minutes after news of his death became public. Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan were among the first to arrive, followed by actors Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Zayed Khan, and producer Siddharth Roy Kapur. Heavy police deployment was witnessed at the site as fans and media gathered in large numbers to bid farewell to the legendary actor.
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Dharmendra leaves behind an unparalleled cinematic legacy—one built on passion, resilience, and an enduring connection with audiences. His contribution to Indian cinema will remain unmatched, and his memory will continue to inspire generations of actors and storytellers.
