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Published By : Bratati Baral | November 24, 2025 12:55 PM
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Today, we remember Bollywood’s iconic Dharmendra, the legendary actor, philanthropist, and former politician. His passing is a huge loss to Indian cinema. Over his long and illustrious career, he gave the industry some of its most memorable films, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished forever.

Early life

  • Dharmendra was born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, India.
  • His full name was Dharmendra Kewal Kumar Deol.
  • His father, Kewal Krishan, was a school teacher.
  • He completed his college education at Ramgarhia College, Phagwara, and also attended Panjab University, Chandigarh.

Career beginnings

  • Dharmendra began his film career in 1960 with his first movie, “Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere”.
  • Although this debut was not a commercial success, it gave him his first break in the film industry.

Rise to stardom

  • His first major hit came in 1961 with Shola Aur Shabnam.
  • In the 1960s, he appeared in a variety of films- romantic, social dramas, and patriotic movies- including Anpadh (1962), Bandini (1963), and Haqeeqat (1964).
  • Phool Aur Patthar (1966) cemented his status as a leading man and action hero.
  • He showcased versatility with thrillers like Shikar and Ankhen in 1968 and serious dramas like Satyakam (1969).

Peak of career

  • The 1970s and 1980s saw Dharmendra at his prime:
  • Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971)-as a righteous outlaw.
  • Seeta Aur Geeta (1972)-a mix of comedy and drama, showing his range.
  • Other hits: Raja Jani, Samadhi, Jugnu, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Chupke Chupke.
  • His most iconic role was Veeru in Sholay (1975), one of Indian cinema’s most enduring films.
  • He also starred in action-packed hits such as Dharam Veer (1977), The Burning Train (1980), and Hukumat (1987).
  • In 1997, he received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award.

Later life and politics

  • In the 2000s, he shifted to character roles, with films like Life in a… Metro (2007), Johnny Gaddaar (2007), and Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011).
  • His most recent appearances were in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023).
  • Dharmendra also served as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Personal life

  • He married Prakash Kaur, with whom he had four children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, and Ajeeta.
  • In 1980, he married Hema Malini, and they have two daughters: Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.
  • Known as the “He-Man of Bollywood”, he earned this nickname for his strong, masculine screen presence.
  • In 2012, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards.

Death

  • Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, at the age of 89.
  • His passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, and tributes poured in from across the film industry and his fans worldwide.

Legacy

  • Dharmendra acted in over 300 films across more than six decades.
  • He was admired for his versatility-equally at home in romance, comedy, drama, and action films.
  • Beyond his movies, he is remembered for his simplicity, warmth, and dedication, making him a beloved figure across generations.