Mumbai: Veteran actor Dharmendra, affectionately known as Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’ and ‘Dharam Paaji’, breathed his last on Monday at the age of 89, leaving behind an indelible legacy spanning more than six decades.
According to reports, an ambulance had arrived at his residence this morning, creating a wave of concern among fans. His daughter Esha Deol was later clicked arriving at Pawan Hans Cremation Centre for his last rites.
The news of his death came on the very day the makers of the upcoming film ‘Ikkis’, scheduled to hit cinemas on December 25, unveiled the poster featuring the veteran actor. “Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations. A stalwart of Indian cinema returns in a role defined by deep emotion and quiet strength. Dharmendra ji’s legacy meets the legacy of a nation’s youngest Param Vir Chakra hero,” read the caption.
In the film, Dharmendra plays the father of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the young and valiant soldier portrayed by Agastya Nanda.
The veteran actor had been critically ill and was recently discharged from Breach Candy Hospital. He was said to be in a stable condition and recovering well at home.
Paying tributes to the legend, filmmaker Karan Johar
wrote: “It is an end of an ERA….. a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence … he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema… defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history … but mostly he was the best human being… he was so loved by everyone in our industry …. He only had immense love and positivity for everyone … his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe …. Today there is a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled by anyone … there will always be the one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much…. The heavens are blessed today…. It will always be my blessing to have worked with you…. And my heart says with respect, reverence and love…. Abhi Na jao chodke…. Ke dil abhi bhara nahi……”
Dharmendra began his acting career in the 1960s with ‘Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere’ and went on to build a robust career for himself. He holds the record for starring in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema, which include Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Sholay, Dharam Veer, Chacha Bhatija, Bandini, Chupke Chupke, Dillagi and The Burning Train.
He was conferred with the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
In the late 1990s, he appeared in character roles in several successful and acclaimed films, such as Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Life in a… Metro, Apne, Johnny Gaddaar and Yamla Pagla Deewana. He was last seen in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024).