Goodbye, Veeru: Dharmendra Leaves a Nation Heartbroken

Mumbai, Nov 2025: Indian cinema bid farewell to one of its most iconic and beloved figures on Sunday as veteran actor Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89. The legendary star, fondly known across generations as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” leaves behind an unparalleled legacy of charisma, strength, and cinematic excellence that shaped the landscape of Hindi cinema for more than six decades.

The actor had been discharged just days earlier from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he had been under close medical monitoring. Doctors had reported that Dharmendra was stable and recuperating well at home. Dr. Rajiv Sharma, who supervised his treatment, had urged fans not to spread misinformation, assuring the public that the actor was improving and expressing hope that he would celebrate his 90th birthday on December 8 with pride. But fate had a different script in store.

Dharmendra was admitted to the hospital on November 10 in a critical condition and placed on life support. Even earlier, on October 31, he had been under strict medical observation due to age-related complications. Despite fighting courageously, the screen legend breathed his last, closing a monumental chapter in Indian film history.

A Journey That Reads Like a Film Script

Dharmendra’s life remains one of the most remarkable rags-to-stardom stories in Bollywood. Born Dharmendra Deol in 1935 in Sahnewal, a small village in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, he was the son of a schoolteacher. His dreams of the movies ignited when he won a prestigious national talent contest conducted by a film magazine—an event that became the turning point of his life.

He made his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, though it was Shola Aur Shabnam (1961) that earned him his first recognition. Powerful performances in Anpadh (1962) and Bimal Roy’s Bandini (1963)—a National Award-winning masterpiece—established him as a versatile and promising actor.

Dharmendra’s image evolved dramatically in 1966 with Phool Aur Patthar, his first major action role, which earned him the title “He-Man of Bollywood.” His rugged masculinity, combined with a gentle emotional depth, struck a chord with the nation.

Across the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, Dharmendra delivered some of Indian cinema’s most enduring classics, including:

• Sholay
• Mera Gaon Mera Desh
• Jugnu
• Pratigya
• Dharam Veer
• Chupke Chupke
• Dream Girl
• Yaadon Ki Baaraat
• The Burning Train
• Anupama
• Satyakam

He holds the industry record for the highest number of hit films—an achievement yet to be matched. Recognising his immense contribution to Indian cinema, the Government of India conferred upon him the Padma Bhushan in 2012.

Continuing Brilliance in His Later Years

Even in the later stages of his career, Dharmendra brought his trademark sincerity to a range of supporting and character roles. Performances in Life in a… Metro, Johnny Gaddaar, Apne, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya reaffirmed his enduring appeal.

His next appearance was scheduled in Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis, a war drama centered on Param Vir Chakra awardee Arun Khetarpal, co-starring Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia. The film is set for release in December.

Dharmendra also nurtured talent through his banner Vijayta Films, founded in 1983. The company launched his son Sunny Deol with Betaab and later produced acclaimed films like Ghayal, Barsaat, Socha Na Tha, and Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas, which introduced his grandson Karan Deol. Ghayal earned the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

A Legendary Love Story

Dharmendra’s personal life was as deeply followed as his professional journey. His on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini—beginning with Tum Haseen Main Jawaan—captured public imagination. Their bond soon blossomed into real-life love during the 1970s, marking one of Bollywood’s most iconic romances.

At the time, Dharmendra was married to Prakash Kaur and the father of four children: Sunny, Bobby, Ajeeta, and Vijayta. Despite family opposition and intense media scrutiny, Dharmendra and Hema Malini married quietly and later welcomed daughters Esha and Ahana.

Their story, layered with love, challenges, and devotion, remains one of the most compelling chapters in Bollywood history.

Dharmendra continued to support and stay connected with both families. Though much speculation surrounded their dynamic, the Deol family largely maintained dignity and unity in public.

A Short Political Chapter

Dharmendra also ventured briefly into politics. He contested the 2004 Lok Sabha elections from Bikaner in Rajasthan and served as a Member of Parliament until 2009. He did not seek re-election, though Hema Malini continues to be an active MP, and Sunny Deol has also held political office.

An Immortal Legacy

Dharmendra is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, second wife Hema Malini, daughters Ajeeta, Vijayta, Esha, Ahana, and sons Sunny and Bobby Deol.

With over 300 films, unparalleled box office success, and a fan following that transcended generations, Dharmendra was not just a cinematic star—he was an emotion. He embodied honesty, gentleness, masculinity, humor, and humility in equal measure. Few actors have managed to touch the hearts of so many with such effortless grace.

As India mourns, it also remembers him with warmth, gratitude, and deep affection.

Tribute from Mavericknews30

“To the man who defined masculinity without losing tenderness, who brought honesty to the screen and poetry to life — thank you, Dharmendra ji. Your films shaped our childhoods, your smile warmed our homes, and your spirit will live on forever in the heart of Indian cinema. Rest in glory, He-Man. The screens may fade, but your light never will.” — Mavericknews30