Legendary Actor Dharmendra Deol(89) Passes Away

Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol (89), one of the most important superstars in the history of Indian cinema, passed away today (November 24, 2025) due to prolonged illness. He was undergoing treatment at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital and breathed his last at 10:30 a.m. in the presence of his family members. The news has plunged the entire Bollywood industry and millions of fans into deep grief.

Born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali village near Ludhiana in Punjab, Dharmendra was passionate about cinema from his early youth. He made his acting debut in 1960 with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. With blockbuster hits like Sholay (1975), The Silent (1973), Chupke Chupke, and Sita Aur Geeta (1982), he earned the iconic title of “He-Man” of Indian cinema. Having acted in over 300 films, he won the hearts of audiences across generations with his powerful performances and charming persona.

Dharmendra’s personal life began with his first marriage to Prakash Kaur in 1954. The couple has two sons – Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol – and two daughters. Later, in 1980, he married actress Hema Malini, with whom he has two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. Almost every member of his family is actively involved in the film industry.

In recent weeks, his health had been deteriorating. He was first admitted in October and was readmitted on November 10. Earlier this month, false death rumours about him spread on social media, causing distress to the family. His daughter Esha Deol had then clarified, “My father is doing fine.” However, his condition worsened in the early hours of today.Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “Dharmendra ji’s demise is an irreparable loss to Indian cinema.” Several top stars including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Amitabh Bachchan have paid heartfelt tributes. Dharmendra’s mortal remains will be kept at his Mumbai residence this evening for people to pay their last respects. The final rites will be performed tomorrow (November 25) at his ancestral village in Punjab.

Dharmendra’s life and legacy will forever remain a golden chapter in Indian cinema, and his films will continue to inspire generations to come.May his soul rest in eternal peace.