Dharmendra, iconic Bollywood actor and Indian cinema’s ‘He-Man,’ dies at 89

Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars whose illustrious career helped define Bollywood’s golden era of the 1970s and 1980s, died Monday in Mumbai. He was 89 years old, just days shy of his 90th birthday.

The actor had been hospitalized intermittently in recent weeks in Mumbai, India’s entertainment capital, before his passing. A senior police official who had spoken with Dharmendra’s doctor confirmed the death, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national tributes, acknowledging Dharmendra’s immense contribution to Indian cinema. “He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played,” Modi wrote on social media platform X. “The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people.”

Known affectionately as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” Dharmendra crafted a unique screen persona that blended masculine action heroism with romantic sensitivity, making him extraordinarily popular across audience demographics. His performances typically embodied traditional heroic values – righteousness, patriotism, and courage – while also displaying a warmth that endeared him to generations of moviegoers.

His appearance in “Sholay” (1975), widely considered one of the greatest films in Indian cinema history, solidified his legendary status. This Indian take on the Spaghetti Western featured Dharmendra alongside Amitabh Bachchan, forming one of Bollywood’s most iconic on-screen partnerships. Their camaraderie and chemistry helped propel “Sholay” to become a cultural touchstone in Indian entertainment.

Dharmendra’s filmography spans an impressive range of genres and roles. From the romantic comedy “Chupke Chupke” (1975) to the action drama “Mera Gaon Mera Desh” (1971), his versatility allowed him to move effortlessly between intense dramatic performances and lighthearted comedic roles.

His professional and personal life became intertwined through his celebrated on-screen partnership with actress Hema Malini. The pair starred together in more than two dozen films before marrying in 1980, though their union came amid considerable controversy. Dharmendra had previously married Prakash Kaur and had four children with her, including sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, both of whom would later become successful actors in their own right.

According to media reports, Dharmendra reportedly converted to Islam before his marriage to Malini, as Hindu law at the time prohibited second marriages if the first spouse was still living. Despite his marriage to Malini, with whom he had two daughters including actress Esha Deol, Dharmendra reportedly never divorced Kaur and maintained relationships with both families.

As Indian cinema evolved through the decades, so did Dharmendra’s career. In the 1990s and 2000s, he gracefully transitioned to character roles, often portraying paternal figures with the same commitment that had marked his leading-man era. His career remained active until recently, with his final appearance coming in the war biopic “Ikkis.”

“I never thought I would come this far,” he reflected in a 2021 interview with Indian news website Rediff, looking back on his extraordinary journey.

Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in Punjab in 1935, he grew up in a farming family far removed from the glamour of Bollywood. After moving to Mumbai in the late 1950s, he made his film debut in 1960, eventually appearing in more than 300 films across a career spanning six decades.

The Indian government recognized his cultural contributions in 2012 with the Padma Bhushan, the country’s third-highest civilian honor. Beyond cinema, Dharmendra briefly ventured into politics, serving as a member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009 with the Bharatiya Janata Party, though his political career never matched the impact of his cinematic achievements.

Dharmendra is survived by his wives, children, and grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential figures in the history of Indian cinema. His death marks the end of an era for Bollywood, closing a chapter on one of its most charismatic and enduring stars.