Legendary Bollywood Actor Dharmendra Dies at Age 89

Dharmendra, an iconic figure in Indian cinema, has passed away at the age of 89 after enduring prolonged health issues. Fondly known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, his death has left fans and the Indian film industry mourning the loss of one of its most cherished stars.

His wife, Hema Malini, and daughter, Esha Deol, were seen at the Pawan Hans Cremation Centre as the actor's last rites began.

Tributes from Prominent Figures

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Dharmendra as a remarkable film personality whose performances resonated deeply with audiences across generations. Modi stated:

"The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played."

Renowned Bollywood director Karan Johar also issued a heartfelt statement, calling Dharmendra's demise “the end of an era.” The actor was celebrated for his humility, warmth, and down-to-earth nature by colleagues, admirers, and fellow actors alike.

Dharmendra’s Journey to Stardom

Early Life

Born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali village, Ludhiana, Punjab, Dharmendra hailed from a middle-class Jatt-Sikh family. Originally named Dharam Singh Deol, he was raised by his schoolteacher father and grew up immersed in simple, rural charm. From these humble beginnings, Dharmendra’s passion for acting would eventually lead him to greatness.

Bollywood Debut

The actor stepped into the spotlight with his Bollywood debut in the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere. It marked the beginning of an extraordinary career spanning over three decades with over 300 film appearances, delivering timeless performances and memorable hits.

Breakthrough Role

Dharmendra’s breakthrough came in 1963 with Bimal Roy's classic Bandini, where he played the role of a prison doctor who falls in love with a convict. This nuanced portrayal showcased his versatility and depth, cementing his reputation as a talented and adaptable actor.

Iconic Roles and Lasting Legacy

Among Dharmendra’s many contributions to Indian cinema, his role as Veeru in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay remains one of the most iconic. The film, widely considered one of Bollywood's greatest, became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing Dharmendra’s rugged masculinity paired with genuine warmth.

His robust career also included classics like Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, and Satyakam. Known for his magnetic screen presence, Dharmendra captivated audiences with his charm both on and offscreen, earning him a spot as one of Bollywood’s most beloved stars.

False Reports of Death

Earlier in November, Dharmendra was admitted to the hospital after complaining of breathlessness. His health showed signs of improvement, and he was discharged soon after for home treatment. However, on November 12, rumors began spreading in the media that Dharmendra had passed away.

These false reports led to premature condolences from several prominent figures. The family quickly issued a statement urging the media to respect their privacy during this difficult time and avoid spreading misinformation. The posts were later retracted once the family clarified that the actor was recovering.

Remembering Dharmendra

Dharmendra often referred to himself as “a simple man,” and it was this humility that endeared him to millions. His contribution to Indian cinema remains unparalleled, with roles that ranged from romantic leads to action icons, and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.

This article was previously published on bahrainmoments. To see the original article, click here