Bollywood lost one of its most beloved stars on Monday: Dharmendra has died at the age of 89. The news sent shockwaves through the film world and beyond, with family, friends and fellow actors gathering at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans crematorium to pay their respects.
The veteran actor had been in and out of the hospital recently. He was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital last week and was resting at home when his condition worsened. In the hours after his passing, Hema Malini his wife and daughter Esha Deol were seen arriving at the crematorium, joined by a stream of industry figures. Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan and many others turned up to offer condolences, and cameras captured emotional scenes as they entered the grounds.
Earlier reports said Dharmendra was discharged from the hospital in the morning; doctors said his family was looking after him at home. During his last days, many colleagues visited to check on him. A day after his discharge, Sunny Deol, visibly upset, confronted photographers outside the family home, telling them off in an emotional moment.
Dharmendra’s career stretched over six decades and produced countless memorable roles from early hits like Phool Aur Patthar and Ayee Milan Ki Bela to classics such as Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and the iconic Sholay. He brought a rugged charm and warmth to every part he played and remained a towering presence in Hindi cinema.
The actor is survived by his first wife, Prakash Kaur, his second wife Hema Malini, and six children, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol and daughters Vijeta and Ajeita from his first marriage, plus Esha Deol and Ahana Deol from his marriage to Hema Malini.
Even as the family mourned, the makers of Dharmendra’s upcoming film Ikkis released a character poster honoring him, calling him “a timeless legend.” He was set to appear in the Sriram Raghavan–directed war drama, which is scheduled for release on December 25.
Tributes poured in across the industry. Filmmakers and stars remembered him not only for his screen presence but for his warmth and good humor off-screen. Karan Johar called it “the end of an era,” while other directors and actors shared heartfelt messages and photos recalling long careers and friendships.
For millions of fans who grew up watching him, Dharmendra was more than a movie star he was a symbol of a golden era of Indian cinema. His death leaves a big hole in Bollywood, but his films and the memories he created will keep his spirit alive for generations to come.
