Dharmendra Dies at 89: Hindi Cinema Loses Its Evergreen Superstar

Moneylife Digital Team 24 November 2025

Economy & Nation

Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most adored and enduring stars, passed away on Monday at the age of 89.

Dharmendra had been in fragile health for weeks. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on 10th November and was said to be critical and on life support, according to sources at the time. He had earlier been under strict medical observation since 31 October 2025. On 12th November, the actor was discharged and taken home in a stable condition.

Dr Rajiv Sharma of Breach Candy Hospital had told IANS that the star left the hospital 'fully satisfied' after treatment and urged the public not to spread misinformation about his health. “Everything has been arranged for him,” he had said then, expressing hope that Dharmendra would recover enough to celebrate his 90th birthday on 8 December 2025.

However, despite signs of recovery, the beloved actor’s condition deteriorated once again. His passing marks the end of an era for Bollywood, where he was cherished for his charm, versatility and unmistakable screen presence. Mumbai police confirmed the death, stating that funeral arrangements were being made at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle.

Members of the film fraternity, including Aamir Khan and Abhishek Bachchan, were among the first to reach the crematorium. Film-maker Karan Johar expressed his grief in a heartfelt social media post. Dharmendra’s family also arrived to perform the last rites.

Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra entered films after winning the prestigious Filmfare–Bimal Roy talent hunt in 1958, a contest that would later also discover superstar Rajesh Khanna. He made his acting debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. With his gentle smile, striking looks and natural warmth, he quickly captured the audience’s imagination. Over the years, he grew into one of Hindi cinema’s most bankable stars, known not only for his romantic hero persona but also for his impeccable comic timing and dynamic action sequences.

Through the 1960s, he rose to prominence with hits such as Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Anupama and Bandini. The 1970s and 1980s cemented his superstardom with iconic films including Ankhen, Shikar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Jugnu, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Chupke Chupke, Dharam Veer, Pratiggya, Charas, The Burning Train, Dillagi, Ghazab and the blockbuster Sholay, where his portrayal of the exuberant Veeru became legendary. His rugged masculinity balanced with emotional sensitivity earned him a rare place in the hearts of audiences across generations.

Even as younger stars emerged, Dharmendra continued to shine in character roles in films such as Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Life in a... Metro, Apne, Johnny Gaddaar, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His final performance released during his lifetime was in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. He was set to appear next in Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis, co-starring Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat.

Dharmendra received the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2012 for his contributions to cinema. Known for his humility and warmth, he continued to live part-time at his farmhouse in Khandala with his first wife, Prakash Kaur, in recent years.

His death leaves a deep void in Indian cinema. For millions, Dharmendra was much more than a superstar—he was a symbol of grace, strength, humour and timeless charisma. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and film lovers.

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