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Bollywood Mourns the Loss of Legendary Actor Dharmendra at 89

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, November 27th 2025 at 3:55 GMT by TheHealthSite

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The Bollywood world turns silent as legendary actor Dharmendra passes away at 89 – a heartfelt tribute from Hema Malini and a flood of condolences from stars and fans alike

On a quiet morning in the first week of May 2025, the Bollywood fraternity received the heartbreaking news that the indomitable Dharmendra had succumbed to a prolonged illness. The veteran actor, whose illustrious career spanned more than five decades, died at the age of 89 in his Mumbai residence, after battling pneumonia and other age‑related ailments. His death marks the end of an era, as the man who was once dubbed the “Big B” for his rugged charisma, powerful screen presence, and a string of iconic roles is laid to rest among India’s cinematic legends.

A life in the limelight

Born on 9 April 1925 (some sources cite 1926) in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Dharmendra’s journey to stardom began in the 1950s with a modest debut in Khamoshi (1956). He rose to national prominence with his breakthrough performance in Gopi (1963), which earned him his first Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor. His chameleon‑like talent soon made him a household name, especially after his electrifying portrayal of the dacoit “Brahman” in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay – a film that still stands as a cultural touchstone in Indian cinema.

Dharmendra’s versatility shone through a vast range of genres. He conquered the masala‑movie niche with hits like Himmatwala (1983), Satte Pe Satta (1985), and Ram Lakhan (1989). At the same time, he proved his dramatic prowess in Satte Pe Satta, Aankhen, and Karan Arjun, while lending his voice to a series of memorable duets that defined the soundscape of 70s and 80s Bollywood. Even into the 2000s, he continued to feature in notable productions such as Talaash (2012) and the biographical Siddharth (2015), showcasing his adaptability to changing cinematic tastes.

His contributions did not go unnoticed. Dharmendra has been honored with the prestigious Padma Bhushan in 2004, three Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Awards, and the National Film Award – Special Jury Award in 1991 for Aankhen. His influence extended beyond acting: he served as a Member of Parliament for Haryana’s Bhiwani constituency (1991–1996), where he championed the rights of farmers and rural communities.

Hema Malini’s emotional tribute

The first to publicly announce Dharmendra’s demise was his beloved wife, Hema Malini, the “Divine Beauty” of Indian cinema. In a tearful Instagram post, the former actress-gone-dancer paid tribute to the man who had been her partner for 57 years. She wrote: “The love that was shared between us was a journey of 57 years, that is why I want to share with all the world that Dharmendra has passed away after a long illness and he was my love, my mother, my father and my friend. We miss you, my love” – an emotionally resonant message that quickly flooded the platforms of millions of fans.

The post, accompanied by a sepia‑tone picture of the couple on their wedding day, evoked memories of the golden days when the duo graced both silver screens and national events side‑by‑side. Hema Malini recalled, “We were married in 1970, we had a daughter, Esha Deol, and we shared a bond that was more than love – it was partnership and respect.” Her heartfelt words highlighted the duality of their relationship – one that blended personal affection with a shared passion for cinema.

Industry reactions

Within hours of the announcement, Bollywood icons flooded the digital sphere with tributes. Shah Rukh Khan posted a photo of Dharmendra’s silver‑plate trophy and wrote, “You made our industry a better place, Dharmendra – you will be remembered forever.” Amitabh Bachchan paid homage with a video clip from Sholay, saying, “The father of the nation, the man who taught us the art of the ‘raw energy’ – Dharmendra was an icon.” Salman Khan posted a heartfelt “RIP big B,” while Akshay Kumar highlighted the actor’s “unforgettable legacy of strength and grace.” A group of senior actresses – from Rekha to Kangana Ranaut – sent condolences on behalf of the “women of Bollywood,” a nod to Dharmendra’s many matriarchal portrayals in films.

Even political leaders joined the chorus of sorrow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: “We mourn the loss of the legendary Dharmendra, whose contribution to Indian cinema is immeasurable. He will always remain an inspiration.” Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, Dharmendra’s home state, expressed that “his legacy will live on for generations.” These statements underscored how Dharmendra was revered not only as an entertainer but also as a national icon.

Legacy and remembrance

Dharmendra’s influence resonates far beyond his filmography. In the industry’s “Hall of Fame” – where icons like Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor are remembered – his name shines brightly. His mentorship of younger actors, his humility, and his relentless work ethic set standards that are still taught in acting schools across India.

The actor’s 89 years were marked by a series of iconic films, numerous awards, and a life lived in service to the art form. He left behind a son, Nikhil, who works behind the camera, a daughter, Esha Deol, an established actress, and a daughter-in-law, Sanjay. His funeral arrangements were kept private, but the public was allowed to pay their respects at his burial site in Delhi, where a small gathering of friends and fellow actors solemnly honored the legend.

Final thoughts

As the Indian film industry mourns the loss of Dharmendra, Hema Malini’s touching tribute and the outpouring of respect from his peers serve as a testament to the magnitude of his impact. While the screen will no longer bear the familiar face of the “Big B,” his legacy endures in the silver screen’s golden moments, in the laughter of generations of viewers, and in the inspiring stories of countless actors who were touched by his artistry. His death is not just a personal loss for his family but a collective loss for a nation that found joy, drama, and hope in his performances. Dharmendra’s spirit will continue to inspire for years to come, ensuring that the name of this legend remains etched in Bollywood history forever.