Mumbai, November 24, 2025: Indian cinema today lost one of its most cherished stars. Dharmendra affectionately known across generations as “Garam Dharam”passed away at his Juhu residence in Mumbai. He was 89.
The legendary actor had been dealing with age-related health issues for some time. On November 10, he was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital after experiencing severe breathlessness, but doctors discharged him two days later when his condition appeared to improve. The family, hopeful and relieved, had even begun planning for his milestone 90th birthday on December 8.
But fate had other plans. In the early hours of Monday, his health suddenly worsened. Close family sources confirmed that the actor left peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Born Dharm Singh Deol on December 8, 1935, in Sahnewal, Punjab, Dharmendra went on to build one of the most successful and enduring careers in Hindi cinema. Over six decades, he acted in more than 300 films and delivered some of Bollywood’s most iconic performances. From action-packed roles in Sholay, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and Yaadon Ki Baaraat to his unforgettable comic charm in Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Dream Girl, he created a legacy few can match.
He was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award, and remains among the rare actors with a long list of solo hits during the golden era of Indian cinema.
Dharmendra is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, daughters Vijeeta and Ajeeta; and by his second wife Hema Malini and their daughters Esha and Ahana Deol.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from every corner of the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as “a timeless icon whose warmth touched millions.” Many of Bollywood’s biggest stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Salman Khan arrived to pay their respects.
Crowds of fans gathered outside his home, some holding posters, some quietly crying, remembering the man who brought both strength and gentleness to the screen with equal ease.
Dharmendra stayed connected with his audience until the very end, often posting warm, simple messages from his farmhouse or sharing glimpses of his daily life.
With his passing, Indian cinema bids farewell to a beloved hero an actor who defined an era and left behind a treasure of unforgettable moments.
