Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the “He-Man of Bollywood”, has passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. His death marks a profound moment of grief for the Indian film industry and millions of fans around the world. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, saying Dharmendra’s passing “marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.”
For over six decades, Dharmendra remained one of India’s most beloved film icons—admired for his charisma, versatility, romantic charm, and larger-than-life on-screen presence.
A Career Spanning 300+ Films
Dharmendra appeared in more than 300 films, delivering hit after hit and becoming a household name. He is best known for his unforgettable role as Veeru in the 1975 cult classic Sholay, one of the biggest and most iconic films in Indian cinema history.
🎥 Career highlights include:
Sholay (1975)
Bandini (1963)
Phool Aur Patthar (1966)
Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971)
Chupke Chupke (1975)
From romance to action, comedy to drama, Dharmendra mastered every genre with ease.
The Handsome Star Who Won Hearts
Nicknamed “Garam Dharam” and celebrated globally as one of the most handsome men on screen, Dharmendra commanded unparalleled fan admiration. Female fans famously kept his photos under their pillows, and co-stars often praised his striking looks.
Celebrities who admired him:
- Madhuri Dixit: “One of the most handsome people I have seen on screen.”
- Salman Khan: “The most beautiful looking man.”
- Jaya Bachchan: “A Greek God.”
Dharmendra remained humble, often saying he was “embarrassed” by discussions about his appearance and credited it to his parents and nature.
Early Life and Journey to Stardom
Born on 8 December 1935 in Punjab’s Ludhiana district as Dharam Singh Deol, Dharmendra grew up in a middle-class Jatt-Sikh family. Though his father wanted him to study, Dharmendra dreamt of films from a young age.
His life changed when he won the Filmfare All-India Talent Contest and moved to Bombay (now Mumbai)—beginning a journey that would reshape Bollywood history.
Romance with Hema Malini
Dharmendra shared the screen with more than 70 leading actresses, but his most iconic pairing was with Hema Malini, who later became his second wife.
Their relationship began in the 1960s and blossomed through hit films such as:
Seeta Aur Geeta
Raja Jani
Sholay
The couple married in 1980, despite media controversy and family resistance. Together, they became one of Bollywood’s most adored star couples.
A Brief Political Chapter
Dharmendra served as a BJP Member of Parliament from Bikaner between 2005 and 2009. However, he later admitted politics wasn’t meant for him, saying:
“Politics is not for emotional people, it’s for the thick-skinned.”
Working Until the End
Even in his later years, Dharmendra continued acting, appearing with his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, engaging with fans, and staying active on social media.
Awards and Honours
Although often overlooked for major acting awards earlier in his career, Dharmendra eventually received:
Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1997)
Padma Bhushan (2012)
He always said he never chased fame or titles—only the audience’s love.
Legacy of a Cultural Icon
Despite competing with legends like Dilip Kumar, Rajesh Khanna, and Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra carved a unique space in Bollywood history. Fans often called him the “soul of Sholay”, and he described Veeru as his finest role.
Tributes from Bollywood
Following his death, film personalities shared emotional messages online.
Actor Akshay Kumar wrote:
“Growing up, Dharmendra was the hero every boy wanted to be. Thank you for inspiring generations.”
Conclusion
Dharmendra leaves behind an extraordinary cinematic legacy, a devoted global fan base, and a family that continues his film heritage. His charm, humility, and unforgettable performances ensure that Dharmendra will live forever through his films and the love of the people.
