The film world mourned the loss of one of its most beloved and enduring stars with the news of the Dharmendra Deol Death 2025. Veteran Indian actor Dharmendra Deol, affectionately known as “Dharam Ji” or the “He-Man of Bollywood,” passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, in Mumbai. His death marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema, closing a six-decade-long career that saw him star in over 300 films, making him a central figure in Indian popular culture.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dharmendra Singh Deol |
| Born | December 8, 1935 |
| Passed Away | November 24, 2025 |
| Cause of Death | Age-related ailments |
| Dharmendra age | 89 |
| **First Dharmendra wife | Prakash Kaur (m. 1954) |
| **Second Dharmendra wife | Hema Malini (m. 1980) |
| Children | 6 (Sunny, Bobby, Esha, Ahana, Vijeta, Ajeeta) |
| Nickname | He-Man of Bollywood / Garam Dharam |
Early Life & Education
Dharmendra was born Dharmendra Singh Deol in a village in Punjab, India, in 1935. His upbringing was simple, far removed from the glamour of Mumbai’s film industry. His interest in cinema began at a young age when he would travel long distances to watch movies. He was particularly inspired by the romantic heroes of the time.
In the late 1950s, driven by his passion, he left his home state and moved to Mumbai (then Bombay) to pursue his dream of acting. His good looks, strong build, and honest face helped him secure his first film role in 1960 in Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. This marked the start of a legendary career that would span across three generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Career
Dharmendra’s career can be divided into several phases, each showcasing his versatility. He was an actor who could play action, romance, and comedy with equal ease.
In the 1960s, he established himself as a romantic hero, starring in films like Bandini and Anupama. He quickly became known for his dashing looks and powerful screen presence.
The 1970s were his golden years. This decade cemented his image as the “He-Man of Bollywood.” He became famous for playing tough, action-oriented roles in films like Pratiggya and Charas, often doing his own stunts. This blend of strong action and emotional vulnerability—the “village avenger who recited poetry”—made him uniquely appealing to both city and heartland audiences.
He maintained his status as a leading man well into the 1980s and 1990s, and later successfully transitioned to character roles and supporting his sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, in their films. Even in recent years, he continued to act, starring in films like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023), where he delivered a critically acclaimed and heartwarming performance.
Notable Works
Dharmendra’s filmography is vast, but a few key films stand out as timeless classics:
- Sholay (1975): This remains his most iconic film. Playing the role of Veeru alongside Amitabh Bachchan’s Jai, Dharmendra created one of Hindi cinema’s most famous double acts. The film is considered a defining masterpiece of Indian cinema.
- Seeta Aur Geeta (1972): A hugely popular comedy-drama where he starred opposite his future Dharmendra wife, Hema Malini.
- Satyakam (1969): Considered by many critics to be his finest acting performance, showcasing his dramatic range in a serious role.
- Phool Aur Patthar (1966): This film helped turn him into a major star and solidified his “action hero” image.
Achievements and Recognition
Dharmendra’s long career earned him immense respect and numerous awards, though major industry recognition often came later in his life.
- Padma Bhushan: In 2012, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Bhushan, the country’s third-highest civilian honor, for his contributions to the arts.
- Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award: He received this honor in 1997, recognizing his extensive and successful career.
- Star of the Millennium: His enduring popularity and continuous work kept him in the public eye for over half a century.
His legacy is not just about the awards but the emotional connection he built with audiences. As one film critic noted, his appeal was “organic, unbreakable, and enduring,” embodying the classic image of the Indian film hero.
The Final Days
The actor’s final period saw increasing public interest in his health. Over the last few weeks of his life, news regarding his well-being was a primary concern for fans, with searches for Dharmendra health update today dominating the headlines.
The latest news on dharmendra confirmed that he had been in and out of the hospital in November 2025. He was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital earlier in the month due to respiratory and age-related issues. He was later discharged and was recovering at his residence, with his family providing Dharmendra health update today and requesting privacy.
However, on Monday, November 24, 2025, the actor’s condition worsened, and he passed away at his home in Mumbai at the Dharmendra age of 89, just weeks before his 90th birthday.
The film industry reacted with profound sadness. Figures like Karan Johar and Amitabh Bachchan were among those who immediately paid their respects, highlighting the huge void left by “Dharam Ji.” His funeral was attended by his immediate family, including his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, his wife Hema Malini, and daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.
Dharmendra’s last film, Ikkis, is scheduled for release on December 25, 2025, serving as his final appearance on screen. His passing truly marks an end to a golden chapter in Hindi cinema.
