MUMBAI, Nov 24: Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most cherished and enduring stars, passed away on Monday at the age of 89. The actor, who had recently been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai due to breathing complications, had shown signs of recovery and was discharged, but his condition deteriorated shortly thereafter.
Dharmendra was reportedly placed on a ventilator as his respiratory issues worsened. As the news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the film industry. Aamir Khan and Abhishek Bachchan were among the first to arrive at the Vile Parle crematorium to pay their final respects, while filmmaker Karan Johar shared an emotional tribute on social media. His family members also gathered at the crematorium to bid him farewell.
A few weeks earlier, his wife Hema Malini had reassured the media that he was recovering well. The actor had been living at his Khandala farmhouse with his first wife, Prakash Kaur, having moved there to escape Mumbai’s rising pollution levels.
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra’s journey to stardom began with a historic talent hunt. In 1958, he won a nationwide competition conducted by Filmfare magazine and filmmaker Bimal Roy’s production house, a contest that also later propelled Rajesh Khanna to fame. This win opened the doors of the film industry for him, marking the start of an extraordinary career.
Dharmendra made his debut in the early 1960s and quickly emerged as a versatile and charismatic performer. Whether in romantic dramas, action-packed blockbusters or effortless comedies, he won the hearts of millions with his charm, emotional depth and screen presence. Phool Aur Patthar established him as a leading man, Sholay immortalised him as the iconic Veeru, Chupke Chupke showcased his unmatched comic timing, and films like Yaadon Ki Baaraat cemented his reputation as the quintessential Bollywood hero.
Beyond the screen, Dharmendra remained admired for his humility, warmth and simple personality. His connection with audiences extended far beyond cinema, making him one of the most beloved figures in the industry.
For his contributions to Indian cinema, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, the country’s third-highest civilian award.
