Hema Malini, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan and top Bollywood stars gather to bid farewell as the industry loses an icon
The Indian film fraternity and millions of fans across the world are grieving the loss of veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away on 24 November 2025 at the age of 89. Fondly known as Bollywood’s “He-Man”, the superstar leaves behind a towering cinematic legacy built over six decades of unforgettable performances, unmatched charm, and generations of admirers.
Dharmendra, who had recently been discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, was believed to be recovering at home. His demise has sent shockwaves across the industry, prompting an outpouring of tributes from actors, filmmakers, and fans alike. The legendary star would have celebrated his 90th birthday on 8 December.
Dharmendra’s Final Journey: Bollywood Comes Together in Grief
A Sea of Celebrities at the Crematorium
From early afternoon, the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai witnessed a steady stream of renowned personalities arriving to pay their final respects.
Hema Malini, accompanied by daughter Esha Deol, was among the first to reach the venue. Soon after, Dharmendra’s Sholay co-star Amitabh Bachchan, along with Abhishek Bachchan, arrived to bid farewell to the actor he shared one of Indian cinema’s most iconic pairings with.
Superstars Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt, film producer Siddharth Roy Kapur, and several other industry figures were also seen gathering in solemn tribute.
Key Facts Table: Dharmendra’s Passing – At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dharmendra Singh Deol |
| Known As | “He-Man of Indian Cinema” |
| Date of Death | 24 November 2025 |
| Age | 89 |
| Place of Death | Mumbai, India |
| Recent Health Update | Discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on 12 November 2025; stable but under observation earlier in the month |
| Birthdate | 8 December 1935 (would have turned 90 in 2025) |
| Profession | Actor, Producer |
| Debut Film | Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960) |
| Career Span | Over 60 years |
| Total Films | 300+ |
| Major Hits | Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Ankhen, Jugnu, Chupke Chupke |
| Awards & Honours | Padma Bhushan (2012) |
| Last Released Film | Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) |
| Upcoming Film | Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan (scheduled for 25 December 2025 release) |
| Family Members Present at Cremation | Hema Malini, Esha Deol |
| Celebrities Attending Last Rites | Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Siddharth Roy Kapur, Kareena Kapoor, Karan Johar, Gippy Grewal |
| Industry Reactions | Massive outpouring of grief and tributes from actors, filmmakers, and fans |
Heartfelt Tributes Pour In From Across the Industry
Pulkit Samrat: “He held up entire generations”
Pulkit Samrat honoured Dharmendra’s memory with a deeply emotional message, calling him a “pillar” of Indian cinema. Recalling the veteran’s screen charisma and innate goodness, Pulkit wrote that while audiences admired the heroic characters he played, “the real hero was the man behind the legend.”
Kareena Kapoor’s Touching Throwback
Kareena Kapoor Khan paid tribute by sharing rare black-and-white photographs of Dharmendra with her grandfather Raj Kapoor, captioning the emotional images with the words: “Forever in power.”
Ajay Devgn: “We’ve lost the soul of our cinema”
Actor Ajay Devgn expressed profound grief, calling Dharmendra’s presence and generosity a guiding force for generations of artists.
Gippy Grewal and Karan Johar Remember a Gentle Giant
Punjabi actor Gippy Grewal wrote an emotional note reflecting on Dharamji’s wisdom and warmth, while filmmaker Karan Johar described him as “a massive megastar” and “the best human being,” adding that a void now exists that “can never be filled.”+
A Career That Changed the Course of Indian Cinema
A Six-Decade Journey With Over 300 Films
Dharmendra’s illustrious career began in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He soon rose to prominence with hits like Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke.
From the late 1960s to the 1980s, he delivered some of Hindi cinema’s biggest blockbusters—including:
- Ankhen
- Shikar
- Mera Gaon Mera Desh
- Seeta Aur Geeta
- Yaadon Ki Baaraat
- Jugnu
- Dost
- Pratiggya
- Chupke Chupke
- Sholay (one of the most iconic Indian films of all time)
His versatility—ranging from high-voltage action to nuanced emotional roles—made him one of the most loved stars of multiple generations.
Accolades and Legacy
In 2012, Dharmendra was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards. He holds the distinction of appearing in the highest number of successful Hindi films, a record unmatched even today.
The Later Years: Timeless Roles and New-Age Stardom
Even in his later years, Dharmendra remained active on screen, winning audiences with roles in films like Life in a… Metro, Apne, Johnny Gaddaar, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024).
His next film, Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis—featuring Agastya Nanda—is still scheduled for release on 25 December 2025, making it his final on-screen appearance.
A Farewell to an Immortal Star
Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. His charisma, integrity, and extraordinary body of work have crafted a legacy that will continue to inspire actors, filmmakers, and audiences for generations.
As heartfelt tributes continue to pour in and fans across the world celebrate his memory, one truth resonates above all: there will never be another Dharmendra.
May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.
(India CSR)
