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Dharmendra, Bollywood’s iconic ‘He-Man’ and one of its most cherished actors, passed away at 89. Known for his timeless roles and profound impact on Indian cinema, he leaves behind an unparalleled legacy spanning over six decades.
Dharmendra: From Humble Beginnings to Bollywood Legend
Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra’s journey from a small-town boy to a megastar is nothing short of inspiring. With over 300 films to his name, he carved a niche as both an action hero and a versatile actor loved by all generations.
Iconic Roles and Timeless Hits
Dharmendra gained fame in the ’60s and ’70s with hits like Shola Aur Shabnam, Bandini, and Jeevan Mrityu. The ’70s solidified his ‘He-Man’ image with blockbusters such as Sholay and Dharam Veer. In parallel, his comic timing shone in films like Chupke Chupke, showcasing his diverse talent.
Personal Life and Legacy
His romantic association and later marriage with Hema Malini created Bollywood’s most enduring love story. Despite complexities in personal life, Dharmendra maintained deep humility and warmth, qualities loved by fans and colleagues alike.
Producer and Mentor
Beyond acting, he launched Vijayta Films to produce movies and introduced stars including his son Sunny Deol, who followed his footsteps both in cinema and politics.
Dharmendra in Politics
He served as a member of the Lok Sabha from Bikaner from 2004 to 2009, embodying his commitment to public service alongside his film career.
Recognition and Final Works
Honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2012, Dharmendra continued acting well into his later years, his final film ‘Ikkis’ set for release in December 2025.