Delhi(The COW News Digital)Legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated and enduring stars, passed away on 24 November at the age of 89 after a prolonged illness, Indian media reported on Monday.
According to local reports, the veteran actor had been battling severe respiratory complications and was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he breathed his last. Dharmendra had been experiencing recurring breathing issues in recent months and had been hospitalized twice in the past weeks.
Just two weeks earlier, false news of Dharmendra’s death had circulated widely on Indian media and social platforms, prompting an angry response from the family who categorically denied the rumours. However, this time, close family members have confirmed the actor’s passing, marking the end of an illustrious era in Indian cinema.
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Dharmendra, born Dharam Singh Deol in Ludhiana, Punjab, began his film journey with the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Over the next six decades, he carved a permanent place for himself in Bollywood history, delivering blockbuster films that remain classics to this day. His roles in Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and dozens of other films made him one of the most loved and bankable actors of his time.
Known widely as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” Dharmendra was admired for both his rugged charisma and emotional depth on screen. In 2012, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Bhushan, the nation’s third-highest civilian award, recognizing his immense contributions to Indian cinema.
Dharmendra’s personal life also remained in the spotlight. He married Prakash Kaur at the age of 19, and later tied the knot with actress Hema Malini, with whom he shared a long-lasting and admired partnership. His children from both marriages, including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol, continue to represent the Deol legacy in the Indian entertainment industry.
Despite his age, Dharmendra maintained a strong presence on social media. His fans adored his heartfelt posts about farming, health, and positivity. His final film, Ae Watan Mere Watan, is scheduled for release on 25 December.
With his passing, Bollywood loses one of its brightest stars—a man whose warmth, talent, and charm transcended generations.
