By News Desk
MUMBAI (Nov 11, 2025): The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Dharmendra, the beloved star of Sholay and countless Bollywood classics, who passed away at the age of 89 after a critical health decline.
The legendary actor, known as the “He-Man of Bollywood” for redefining screen heroism with strength and sensitivity, breathed his last at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, where he had been admitted following severe breathlessness. Though initial reports suggested improvement, his condition deteriorated on November 10, leading to his placement on ventilator support in the ICU. Despite doctors’ efforts, the cinematic icon could not recover.
Dharmendra’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, from his breakout role in Phool Aur Patthar to the comic brilliance of Chupke Chupke and the unforgettable Sholay. His rugged charm and emotional depth made him one of Indian cinema’s most adored figures across generations.
Beyond the silver screen, Dharmendra’s personal life remained the subject of public fascination. His controversial second marriage to actress Hema Malini in 1980, while still married to Prakash Kaur, divided fans and media alike. The veteran actor maintained separate households—spending much of his later life with Prakash Kaur and their sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, while Hema Malini lived independently with their daughters Esha and Ahana Deol.
In a previous interview, Bobby Deol had described his father’s final years as peaceful and content at the family farmhouse in Khandala—surrounded by nature, family, and simplicity.
Hema Malini, reflecting on their unconventional relationship, once said she accepted their separate living arrangement “with grace rather than regret,” cherishing the love they shared despite social norms.
Dharmendra leaves behind a cinematic legacy that defined generations, a family that bridges two worlds, and millions of admirers who will forever remember him as the heart and soul of Hindi cinema’s golden era.
