MOVIE DESK: Dharmendra Passes Away: End of an Era in Indian Cinema
Bollywood lost one of its towering figures on November 24, 2025, when veteran actor Dharmendra passed away at his Mumbai residence.
The 89-year-old, affectionately known as the He-Man for his rugged charm and action-hero persona, had been battling respiratory issues in recent months.
His death, just weeks shy of his 90th birthday, has left fans and the industry in collective grief.
A Life in the Spotlight
Dharmendra’s journey from a modest village in Punjab to stardom spanned over six decades, captivating audiences with unforgettable roles in classics like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, and Sita Aur Geeta.
His effortless blend of intensity and warmth not only defined an era but also paved the way for generations of actors. Beyond the screen, he served as a Member of Parliament, adding layers to his legacy.
News of his passing spread quickly, drawing crowds to his home as tributes poured in from across the nation.
The actor’s final moments at home underscored a quiet end to a life full of public adulation.
Tributes from the Nation’s Leaders
President Droupadi Murmu led the condolences, calling Dharmendra’s demise a profound blow to Indian cinema. She praised his enduring popularity and inspirational influence on aspiring talents, offering heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed the sentiment, noting how the actor’s humility shone through his larger-than-life roles. He highlighted Dharmendra’s lasting impact on viewers’ hearts, marking this as a somber chapter for Bollywood.
Union Minister Amit Shah remembered the star’s rise from humble beginnings, emphasizing his ability to breathe life into diverse characters. Shah prayed for strength for Dharmendra’s family and admirers, affirming his eternal presence through his films.
Other voices joined in:
- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari shared personal anecdotes, lauding Dharmendra’s generosity and close ties with his family.
- Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu called the loss shocking, vowing his contributions would echo for generations.
- Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy termed it an irreparable void in the film world.
- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sought peace for his soul and fortitude for his kin.
Echoes from the Film Fraternity
South Indian icons added their warmth to the outpouring. Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan recalled Dharmendra’s pioneering action style, listing iconic films that shaped Hindi cinema’s golden age.
Chiranjeevi, a longtime friend, cherished their affectionate encounters and extended solidarity to sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. Akshay Kumar captured the generational awe, thanking He-Man for fueling dreams of heroism.
These remembrances paint a picture of a man whose kindness matched his on-screen valor, ensuring his stories endure.