Live: RIP Dharmendra, Celebs and Fans Pour in Condolences

Mumbai: Veteran film actor Dharmendra, known affectionately as Bollywood’s ‘He-Man,’ passed away at his Mumbai residence on Monday. He was 89. His last rites were held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai.

The actor had not been keeping well since November 1. He was admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital with respiratory issues earlier this month. He was discharged last week and was said to be recuperating at home.

Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini. He has six children — actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta with Prakash Kaur and actress Esha Deol and Ahana Deol with Hema Malini.

Shortly after the news of his demise emerged, Dharmendra’s mortal remains were transported under strict police guard to the Pawan Hans cremation in Mumbai, where a private funeral was held. Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol performed the last rites, while Hema Malini and Esha Deol were seen to be emotional after the last rites.

Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt and other celebrities gathered at Pawan Hans Crematorium to pay their final respects to Dharmendra.

Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in a village in Ludhiana, Punjab, the veteran actor had a stellar career spanning six decades, which saw him play several characters from action heroes, comic roles to romantic leads, and later the elderly statesmen.

Dharmendra began his film career with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960 at the age of 24 but shot to fame in 1965 with the film Haqeeqat. Later he went on to work in numerous hits including Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baarat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Pratiggya, Chupke Chupke, Naukar Biwi Ka, Phool Aur Patthar, Satyakam, Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Dil Ne Phir Yaad Kiya, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Ankhen, Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, Dharamveer, Loafer, Jugnu, Seeta Aur Geeta, Jeevan Mrityu, Charas, Azaad, Ghazab, Loha, Hukumat and Apne.

Dharmendra was last seen in ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’ in 2024. In the film, he essayed the role of Shahid Kapoor’s grandfather. His final on-screen appearance will be in Ikkis, set to release on December 25. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2012.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of Dharmendra saying the actor’s death marked the end of an era for Indian cinema. “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. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti,” Modi wrote on X.

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu also took to X and wrote, “The demise of veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Shri Dharmendra Ji is a great loss to Indian cinema. One of the most popular actors, he delivered numerous memorable performances during his decades-long illustrious career. As a towering figure of Indian cinema, he leaves behind a legacy which will continue to inspire young generations of artists. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”

Remembering Dharmendra, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar penned an emotional note on X. He wrote, “I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him. His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, “Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh jaata hai mera.”

“He had an effortless warmth, making everyone around him feel valued and special. It was impossible not to be a fan of the person he was. Today, my heart feels heavy with his passing. Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai. Will miss you,” he concluded.