Veteran Bollywood superstar Dharmendra, fondly known as the industry’s original ‘He-Man’, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 89. The celebrated actor had been battling health complications for some time. His condition worsened earlier this month, leading to an emergency admission to the Intensive Care Unit on 10 November 2025, where he was later placed on a ventilator.
According to reports, Dharmendra had been in and out of Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital over the past several days. Though the Deol family had earlier shared that he was responding to treatment, the actor’s health took a critical turn. He had reportedly experienced a drop in oxygen levels, necessitating close monitoring and specialized care in the ICU.
News of his demise has sent shockwaves across the nation. Leaders including the Prime Minister and President, as well as prominent figures from Bollywood and the sports fraternity, expressed heartfelt tributes, remembering Dharmendra as a charismatic icon whose work shaped generations of cinema lovers.
With a remarkable filmography of more than 300 movies, Dharmendra leaves behind an unmatched legacy. He enthralled audiences with evergreen classics such as Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, Jugnu, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Dost, Sholay, Pratiggya, Charas, and Dharam Veer, among countless others. His versatility, screen presence, and relatable charm made him one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars.
Even in recent years, Dharmendra continued to win hearts. His appearance in the 2023 film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, directed by Karan Johar, was widely appreciated by critics and fans alike.
Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of an era. The nation mourns the loss of a true icon—an actor celebrated not only for his on-screen heroism but also for his humility, warmth, and poetic soul.