New Delhi: Veteran actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars, has passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai. The news came days after the Dharam Veer actor was discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for observation. Confirmations regarding his passing were shared on Monday (November 24, 2025), leading to an outpouring of grief across the film fraternity, political circles and among fans worldwide.
Dharmendra had been hospitalised since October 31 and was discharged on Earlier reports on his health had triggered confusion, with sources close to the family stating that he was recuperating and was not on ventilator support. It had been clarified at the time that the actor was under routine medical supervision. However, according to reports on Tuesday, his condition deteriorated and he breathed his last with his family by his side.
Dharmendra’s life and movies
Born Dharmendra Singh Deol in 1935 in Punjab, he rose to prominence during the 1960s and 1970s as one of Bollywood’s most charismatic leading men. His work spanned romance, comedy, drama and action cinema, with films such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Satyakam, Phool Aur Patthar, Anupama and Seeta Aur Geeta remaining deeply cherished. His on-screen pairing with Hema Malini, whom he later married, was one of the most iconic collaborations in Hindi cinema.
The actor was known not only for his screen presence, but also for his warmth and humility. His contributions earned him the title of the “He-Man” of Bollywood, though friends and colleagues often described him as gentle and soft-spoken off screen.
On November 11, several media outlets reported that the actor had passed away. However, the family denied the rumours. His daughter Esha Deol and second wife Hema Malini took to their social media handles to slam the news.
Dharmendra was recently seen in films such as Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and had completed work on Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming film Ikkis, centred on war hero Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.
Tributes have begun to pour in from actors, filmmakers and leaders across the country, many calling his passing an end of an era. Public arrangements for condolences and last rites are expected to be announced by the family soon.
Dharmendra is survived by his wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, daughters Esha and Ahana, and grandchildren.