Bollywood Legend Dharmendra Passes Away At 89

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Veteran Bollywood icon, Dharmendra Krishan Deol, has died in Mumbai at the age of 89, closing a monumental chapter in Indian cinema.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reacting on X on Monday, described his passing as “the end of an era,” joining millions of fans and colleagues in mourning.

Across a stellar six-decade career featuring more than 300 films, Dharmendra became one of India’s most adored screen figures. His portrayal of Veeru in the 1975 classic Sholay remains a defining moment in Bollywood history. Known for effortlessly shifting between romance, action, comedy, and drama, he earned the nickname Bollywood’s “original He-Man,” admired equally for his talent and striking looks.

Born on December 8, 1935, in Ludhiana, Punjab, he rose from humble beginnings before winning a nationwide talent contest that brought him to Bombay in 1960. His early breakthrough in Bimal Roy’s Bandini (1963) paved the way for decades of major hits.

His on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini captivated audiences, and the duo later married in 1980, becoming one of Bollywood’s most celebrated couples.

Among his notable works were Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and the beloved comedy Chupke Chupke. Though not always rated as Bollywood’s top star, Dharmendra remained one of its most respected and enduring figures.

He received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2012.