Mumbai, November 24, 2025: Dharmendra, celebrated as Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’ and revered through a 65-year career, died in Mumbai on Monday at 89, police confirmed. The legendary actor, who would have celebrated his 90th birthday next month, had been unwell and was discharged from hospital on November 12. His family had continued treatment at home due to his fragile health.
Authorities said funeral arrangements were being coordinated at the Pawan Hans crematorium in the Vile Parle area. Police also noted that more details would be shared after coordination with the family.
Dharmendra’s body of work forms one of the largest and most diverse in Hindi cinema, cutting across eras, genres and generations. Known for his commanding presence, he became a symbol of action heroism in the 1970s with “Sholay,” and remained equally celebrated for his comic timing and dramatic performances in acclaimed classics. For many, his filmography mirrors the evolution of mainstream Hindi movies.
Filmmaker Karan Johar mourned the loss on social media, writing that “it is an end of an era,” and remarking that Dharmendra was “incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence.” Johar added that the star is “richly present in the pages of cinema history” and said he was remembered by colleagues as “the best human being.”
Dharmendra’s final appearance on screen came in 2024 in “Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya,” where he portrayed the grandfather of actor Shahid Kapoor.
