Now Reading: Dharmendra the ‘Original He-Man,’ Dies at 89: A Nation Mourns the Loss of a Cinematic Legend and ‘Remarkable Human Being’
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Dharmendra the ‘Original He-Man,’ Dies at 89: A Nation Mourns the Loss of a Cinematic Legend and ‘Remarkable Human Being’
Dharmendra the ‘Original He-Man,’ Dies at 89: A Nation Mourns the Loss of a Cinematic Legend and ‘Remarkable Human Being’
The world of Indian cinema is reeling from the profound loss of veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra, who passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The death of the esteemed actor, famous for iconic roles including those in films like Sholay, has sent shockwaves not only through the Indian film industry but across the entire country. Tributes poured in from Bollywood megastars, leading figures in South Indian cinema, and even high-ranking political officials.
The End of an Era
Dharmendra breathed his last at his Mumbai residence. The actor, who was set to celebrate his 90th birthday just weeks later on December 8, succumbed to age-related illnesses.
His health had been a concern in the preceding months. Earlier in November, the superstar had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy hospital. Though he was subsequently discharged to continue treatment at home, the news of his passing ultimately shattered the film fraternity. Following his death, the veteran actor’s cremation was quickly carried out at the Pawan Hans cremation center in Mumbai under strict police protection. This hasty arrangement, however, triggered disbelief and commentary online, with fans questioning the lack of state honors for an actor with such an incredible cinematic legacy.
Bollywood’s Deepest Condolences
The outpouring of grief from his contemporaries and younger actors highlights the universal admiration Dharmendra commanded.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) penned a heartfelt tribute on X, describing the loss as “inconsolable and irreplaceable” for his family, cinema, and film lovers worldwide. Although the two legends had never starred together in a full film, Dharmendra made a brief appearance in SRK’s movie Om Shanti Om, featuring in the title song. SRK referred to the late actor as nothing short of “a father figure” to him and thanked him for the love and blessings he bestowed. Shah Rukh Khan had visited Dharmendra during his hospital stay and also attended the renowned actor’s funeral on Monday.
Other notable tributes included:
- Akshay Kumar called Dharmendra “our industry’s original He-Man” and stated he was the hero every boy aspired to be while growing up. Akshay added that the veteran actor will live on through his films and the love he spread.
- Kriti Sanon, who recently worked with him in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, mourned the end of an era. She specifically recalled his “warmth and kindness”, his smile, his zest for life and poetry, and the love with which he would bless her.
- Legendary actor Rajinikanth also expressed his sorrow on X, bidding farewell to his “friend” and promising to “always remember your golden heart and the moments we shared”.
Several prominent Bollywood figures, including Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan, were seen arriving at the Mumbai crematorium center after the news of Dharmendra’s demise was confirmed.
South Indian Cinema Mourns a ‘Golden Heart’
The wave of condolences extended far beyond Mumbai, emphasizing Dharmendra’s pan-Indian appeal. Several leading figures from South Indian cinema publicly grieved the loss of the veteran star.
- Chiranjeevi Konidela spoke of Dharmendra as not just a legendary actor but a “remarkable human being”. Chiranjeevi shared that the humility and warmth he experienced during their meetings deeply touched his heart, and he would forever cherish those personal moments. Chiranjeevi also extended his heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family, especially his “dear friends Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol”.
- Jr NTR tweeted that Dharmendra defined an era that can never be replaced, adding that the warmth he brought to Indian cinema will stay with everyone forever.
- Ravi Teja described Dharmendra as one of the “warmest, most genuine souls” he had the privilege of meeting. He noted that the actor’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void and that the industry has lost a legend with a “golden heart”.
- Allu Arjun called Dharmendra a “Legend” who touched millions of hearts, expressing his deep sadness upon hearing the news.
A Legacy of Humility and Depth
The actor’s immense legacy was also acknowledged at the highest political level. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to condole Dharmendra’s death, stating that his passing “marks the end of an era in Indian cinema”. PM Modi praised him as an iconic film personality and a phenomenal actor who brought both charm and depth to every role he played. Furthermore, the Prime Minister noted that Dharmendra was equally admired for his simplicity, humility, and warmth, qualities that struck a chord with countless people.
In a personal reflection, Sunita Ahuja, wife of actor Govinda, revealed that Dharmendra was her childhood crush. She spoke about her last meeting with the veteran star, which occurred during Ganesh Chaturthi at Esha Deol’s home. Sunita Ahuja and her son Yash met Dharmendra and Hema Malini there. She also recalled dancing with “Dharamji” on a reality show stage two years prior to his passing.
Dharmendra’s passing, at 89, is an unparalleled loss for the global film community, but as many of his colleagues noted, his noble soul and monumental body of work will ensure his legacy lives on forever in the hearts of millions.
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