Dharmendra passes away at 89 at his residence in Mumbai, Karan Johar posts: ‘An end of an era’
Legendary actor Dharmendra passes away in Mumbai at the age of 89. The actor was admitted to the Breach candy hospital earlier this month and was discharged. His family had said that he was recuperating. However, on November 24, in the afternoon, an ambulance was seen leaving his house and several celebs reached the Juhu cremetorium. While his family has not yet confirmed the news, Karan Johar posted about his demise. Karan Johar took to his Instagram and wrote, “It is an end of an ERA….. a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence … he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema… defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history … but mostly he was the best human being… he was so loved by everyone in our industry …. He only had immense love and positivity for everyone … his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe …. Today there is a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled by anyone … there will always be the one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much…. The heavens are blessed today…. It will always be my blessing to have worked with you…. And my heart says with respect, reverence and love…. Abhi Na jao chodke…. Ke dil abhi bhara nahi……OM SHANTI” Dharmendra leaves behind an unmatched legacy spanning over six decades and 300 films. The cause of death has not been disclosed at this time, but the actor has not been keeping well since November 1 when he was admitted to the hospital. His last film will be Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’ also starring Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat. The film is scheduled for a release on December 25, 2025
The legacy of ‘Garam Dharam’ and his void in Hindi cinema
The late actor had charmed audiences in films like ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ in 2023 and ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’ in 2024. His versatility was his hallmark. He went on to seamlessly transition between being the romantic hero in films like ‘Phool Aur Patthar’ (1966) and ‘Aaye Din Bahar Ke’, to the rugged action star in films such as ‘Dharam Veer’ and ‘Hukumat’. However, the most iconic role of his career was the lovable rogue Veeru in Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 film ‘Sholay’. His absence surely leaves a void in Hindi cinema as his ‘good looks’ coupled with innate charm and signature dance moves and songs like the iconic ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana’, all of this can only be associated with him. He’s remained a favourite, not just for women but also has a huge fan following among men.
Dharmendra: The ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, he ventured into cinema in 1960 with the film ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.’ Dharmendra quickly rose to stardom in the mid-1960s with romantic and dramatic roles in films like ‘Phool Aur Patthar’ (1966) and ‘Anupama’ (1966).His initial stardom was built on his striking good looks and ability to master both drama and comedy, as exemplified in Hrishikesh Mukerjee’s ‘Chupke Chupke.’ He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2012.Dharmendra’s family The late actor Dharmendra was married to Prakash Kaur and later to his frequent co-star of many films, actress Hema Malini. He has six children, including Bollywood actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta with Prakash Kaur; and actress Esha Deol and Ahana Deol with Hema Malini.
