Veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra lovingly known as the “He-Man of Indian Cinema” passed away at his Juhu residence and was laid to rest at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans Crematorium on Monday. The 89-year-old actor’s death has left the film fraternity and millions of fans across the country in deep mourning.
Film fraternity gathers in large numbers
As news of his passing spread, leading actors, filmmakers, political leaders and admirers converged at the crematorium to pay their respects. Among the earliest and most prominent attendees were Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Govinda, Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan and veteran actress Saira Banu. Family members remained at the centre of the proceedings as colleagues and friends offered condolences and support.
Social media filled with heartfelt tributes. Sushmita Sen remembered him as “an incredible human being whose goodness was contagious,” while Sanjay Dutt said Dharmendra “lived in people’s hearts beyond his films.” Filmmaker Karan Johar, designer Manish Malhotra and actors including Kajol, Kareena Kapoor and Pulkit Samrat shared nostalgic memories of his generosity and his influence across generations.
National leaders pay respects
Political leaders from across the spectrum expressed grief. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, JP Nadda, Nitin Gadkari and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi offered condolences, calling Dharmendra an “irreplaceable loss to Indian cinema.” Statements from public figures emphasised his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the nation’s most beloved stars.
Health, final days and last rites
Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on October 31 after experiencing breathlessness. Though discharged earlier in November, his health declined and he passed away at his Juhu residence. His final rites were conducted at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, attended by family members including wife Hema Malini, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol and a long list of celebrities and well-wishers.
The legend career and legacy
Born in 1935, Dharmendra’s career stretched over six decades and more than 300 films. From the blockbuster Sholay to classics such as Satyakam, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar and Seeta Aur Geeta, his versatility across action, romance, drama and comedy shaped eras of Hindi cinema. Colleagues and critics remember him not only for his screen charisma but for his humility, warmth and mentorship to younger artists.
Writers and filmmakers including Javed Akhtar and Manoj Bajpayee called him “one of the last giants,” and many recounted personal stories of his kindness on set and off it. Even in later years, Dharmendra stayed connected with fans through social media, family appearances and occasional film projects.
Final works and a posthumous release
Dharmendra’s most recent on-screen appearance was in the 2024 release Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. He is set to appear posthumously in Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis, scheduled for release on December 25, 2025. Hours after his passing, the film’s team released a poster honouring his contribution, and colleagues used the moment to celebrate his lasting impact on cinema.
Survived by family
Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, his six children including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Esha Deol and a large extended family. The Deol family, who have been part of Indian cinema for generations, stood together as the nation paid its final respects.
Notable attendees and voices of condolence
- Amitabh Bachchan
- Sunny Deol
- Bobby Deol
- Hema Malini
- Shah Rukh Khan
- Deepika Padukone
- Ranveer Singh
- Sanjay Dutt
- Salman Khan
- Aamir Khan
- Rajinikanth
- Sushmita Sen
- Karan Johar
- Manish Malhotra
- Shabana Azmi
What India remembers
As tributes poured in from film communities and political leaders alike, one theme recurred: Dharmendra was more than an actor he was an emotion, a presence and a constant across changing eras of Indian popular culture. For millions, his performances, charm and off-screen kindness will remain an enduring part of his legacy.