Dharmendra Dies at 89 at His Mumbai Residence: Karan Johar calls it ‘an end of an era’
Indian cinema has lost one of its brightest stars. Legendary actor Dharmendra passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. The veteran had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month and was discharged soon after, with the family assuring that he was recovering. However, on November 24, an ambulance was seen leaving his residence, and several celebrities were later spotted at the Juhu crematorium. While the family has not yet issued an official statement, filmmaker Karan Johar confirmed the heartbreaking news.
Karan Johar shared a deeply emotional tribute, writing, "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"
A Golden Legacy
Even in recent years, Dharmendra continued to charm audiences with appearances in films like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024). His journey spanned romantic dramas, high-voltage action, and unforgettable comedies. He effortlessly transitioned from the romantic hero of Phool Aur Patthar and Aaye Din Bahar Ke to the fierce action star of Dharam Veer and Hukumat. But for many, he will forever be remembered as Veeru from the 1975 classic Sholay a character that sealed his place in cinematic history.
His trademark charisma, unmatched screen presence, and evergreen songs like Yamla Pagla Deewana made him a favourite across generations and genders. His absence leaves a void that Bollywood may never be able to fill.
The Rise of the 'He-Man'
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Punjab, he debuted with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960. By the mid-60s, he was a sensation, delivering hits such as Anupama and Hrishikesh Mukerjee’s Chupke Chupke. His good looks, comic timing, and dramatic depth made him one of Indian cinema’s most versatile icons. In 2012, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, recognizing his immense contribution to the arts.
A Family of Film
Dharmendra is survived by his extended family, including wives Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta, and daughters Esha and Ahana. His passing marks not just the end of an era but the departure of a beloved figure who shaped Bollywood’s golden years and inspired countless performers who followed.
Karan Johar shared a deeply emotional tribute, writing, "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"
A Golden Legacy
Even in recent years, Dharmendra continued to charm audiences with appearances in films like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024). His journey spanned romantic dramas, high-voltage action, and unforgettable comedies. He effortlessly transitioned from the romantic hero of Phool Aur Patthar and Aaye Din Bahar Ke to the fierce action star of Dharam Veer and Hukumat. But for many, he will forever be remembered as Veeru from the 1975 classic Sholay a character that sealed his place in cinematic history. His trademark charisma, unmatched screen presence, and evergreen songs like Yamla Pagla Deewana made him a favourite across generations and genders. His absence leaves a void that Bollywood may never be able to fill.
The Rise of the 'He-Man'
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Punjab, he debuted with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960. By the mid-60s, he was a sensation, delivering hits such as Anupama and Hrishikesh Mukerjee’s Chupke Chupke. His good looks, comic timing, and dramatic depth made him one of Indian cinema’s most versatile icons. In 2012, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, recognizing his immense contribution to the arts. A Family of Film
Dharmendra is survived by his extended family, including wives Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta, and daughters Esha and Ahana. His passing marks not just the end of an era but the departure of a beloved figure who shaped Bollywood’s golden years and inspired countless performers who followed. Next Story