Dharmendra Death News Live Update: Bollywood's 'He-Man' has passed away at the age of 89. (Express archive photo)Dharmendra Death News Live Update: Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra passed away on Monday morning in Mumbai from age-related illness. He was 89.
Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, among others, attended the actor’s funeral held at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai. PM Narendra Modi, meanwhile, paid tribute to Dharmendra, calling his death ‘end of an era’.
Also Read | Dharmendra dies at 89: The ‘macho’ hero who broke boundaries, gave India both Sholay and Satyakam
Acharya Bhupendra Shastri, who performed the last rites of Dharmendra, told ANI, “All the rituals have been performed. We pray for the salvation of the soul of the great actor. All the members of the family were present there. No one can fill his space. He was a gem for the country. He served as a legacy for society. He has millions of fans across the world.”
Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital in October after experiencing breathlessness. After weeks of medical care, he was discharged on November 12 and continued his treatment at home. The actor breathed his last on November 24.
Sonu Sood tweeted, "Sir, it was a privilege to meet you. A truly humble, grounded soul — there will never be another Dharmendra. You inspired me to come to Mumbai and chase my dream of becoming an actor. Thank you for inspiring millions. Rest in peace, sir."
Kamal Haasan extended his condolences and wrote on X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and legendary actor Dharmendra ji. Dharam Ji’s charm, humility and strength of spirit were as real off-screen as on it. Indian cinema has lost one of its kindest icons. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers."
Actor Ameesha Patel took to her Instagram handle and wrote, "Woke up a few seconds ago in New York to this..most heartbreaking news! RIP not just the He Man n most goodlooking man of Bollywood but the nicest, warmest n most amazing human in this industry! Will Miss ur warm hugs n sweetest smiles n always encouraging words."
Randeep Hooda tweeted, "Legends don’t die. There will never be another Dharmendra. A great actor and a beautiful man inside out. You’ll forever be in our hearts Dharam ji."
Mahesh Babu shared via X, "Cinema has lost one of its strongest voices today… Rest in peace Dharmendra Deol Sir. The honesty and weight you brought to every character across generations and eras will continue to inspire us always….Praying for strength and courage to his family during this difficult time…"
Smriti Irani shared a long note on Instagram which read, "He stunned me with his simplicity, his generosity was well known. He met my awe with humility…. All of 27 years I was when I first asked him ‘Could you please help me with my electoral campaign, for this is my first and I barely know what to do?' He said. ‘Puttar Il be there’ and arrive he did to a horde of fans in Paharganj, Chandani Chowk that held onto his every word, that watched in wonder this legend of ours … He came like an elder would to help a young one in need .. His loss feels personal, his life feels I knew him every day . A man formidable, a soul that was gentle , his kindness spoke volumes as he smiled shyly at every compliment paid . Farewell Sir .. you leave behind millions heartbroken . Thank you for the smiles , the laughter , the blessings .. thank you for being you."
Urmila Matondkar took to X and wrote, "Handsomest of them all n also warmest n nicest human being. After being a legendary star someone who could be so very charming n charismatic. You will be missed deeply sir!! RIP #dharmendradeol Heaven becomes even more beautiful with your entry in it!!"
Arjun Kapoor said via Instagram, "My Nani and Dharam ji worked on Farishtey together and I had the pleasure as a child to experience his impish charm and magic, drawing the crowd waiting to watch him in action. End of an era... We have lost the He-Man of Bollywood, but his warmth, grace & legacy will live on forever. Thank you for touching generations with your art and your spirit, Dharam ji. You will be missed! RIP, you legend."
Preity Zinta posted on Instagram, "What do you say about a man that was all heart, so loving, so compassionate & one of the biggest superstars & a legend of Indian cinema. When I didn’t know him I loved him and when I met him I loved him even more. Words fail me as I feel sadness creep into my heart. I will miss you beyond words Dharam Ji ! Thank you for always being so kind, and for being so generous and loving to me. Thank you for entertaining us & for uplifting others around you. You lit up so many lives. There will never be another like you. Rest in peace."
Anil Kapoor shared on Instagram, "Dharam ji was hard to capture in one sentence...Hero, Father, the OG Punjabi, a man who was as keenly emotional as he was mischievous, larger than life but also relatably human...Even as he moved on from this world, he left us with the strength to carry on. Indian cinema will never be the same, but it will stay strong as if to pay tribute to his life and journey. I hope God blesses his family with the same strength that Dharam ji gave us all, and I hope he finds peace and contentment in the afterlife. Here’s to you Dharamji. You were, and always will be, a class act."
Kapil Sharma posted a note in Hindi on Instagram, which translated to: "Goodbye, Dharm Paaji. Your passing is deeply heartbreaking; it feels as if I have lost my father for the second time. The love and blessings you gave me will forever remain in my heart and memories. No one understood better than you how to win someone’s heart in just a moment. You will always remain in our hearts. May God grant you a place at His feet."
Acharya Bhupendra Shastri, who performed the last rites of veteran actor Dharmendra, told ANI, "All the rituals have been performed. We pray for the salvation of the soul of the great actor. All the members of the family were present there. No one can fill his space. He was a gem for the country. He served as a legacy for society. He has millions of fans across the world."
Veteran actress Zeenat Aman took to Instagram and wrote, "I am so sad to learn that the world lost a jewel from the Hindi film industry today. Dharam ji was always amongst my favourite co-stars, and I am blessed to have worked alongside him in a number of movies. For an introverted personality such as myself, his down to earth demeanour and natural kindness were a warm comfort on set. At times when the pressure, glitz and glam felt horribly garish, there he was with no pretences or guile. A sweet reminder that life is about the real things not the fluff. My heartfelt condolences to his family, may it be of some solace that his legacy is cherished by millions of Indians around the world."
Hours after he and his wife, Deepika Padukone, were spotted arriving for Dharmendra's last rites, actor Ranveer Singh shared a photograph of himself with the legendary actor on his Instagram story in his memory. Actor Vicky Kaushal also remembered Dharmendra on the occasion. He wrote, "Deeply saddened by this tragic news. You'll always continue to be in our hearts."
Telugu star and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "The news of the passing of Padma Bhushan Sri Dharmendra Deol Ji, one of the greatest legends of Indian cinema, has deeply saddened me. He won the hearts of millions with his unforgettable portrayal of 'Veeru' in Sholay, a film that has always been one of my all-time favourites, and he enthralled generations as the beloved 'He-Man' of Indian cinema. His demise is an irreparable loss to our film industry. I offer my deepest condolences on his passing and extend my heartfelt prayers and strength to his family members and countless admirers."
Besides being renowned for his looks, Dharmendra was also known for his lively lifestyle, which also included a lot of alcoholic drinks. The actor never shied away from admitting that he loved his drinks, but he also knew that his son Sunny Deol was never comfortable with them. In fact, he also suggested that it was probably his lifestyle that made Sunny a teetotaler. Read More
At the height of superstardom, Dharmendra, already married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he has four children (including Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol), welcomed his frequent co-star Hema Malini into his life as his wife in 1980. Though the couple have spoken openly about their bond over the years, it was only recently that Hema Malini revisited the deeply personal reasons behind her decision to marry a man who already had a family. Read More
Paying tributes to Dharmendra, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "The passing of Dharmendraji marks the end of a cinematic era. A legend whose warmth and artistry will live on forever. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti."
A pall of gloom has descended on India following the demise of legendary actor Dharmendra. Since the news broke, people from various walks of life have taken to social media to express their sadness and pay tribute to him. Actor Govinda also took to social media to remember Dharmendra. Sharing an old photo of him warmly embracing the acting legend, Govinda wrote, "No one can be like you. Love you, my ustad forever."
The heads of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha paid tributes to legendary actor Dharmendra on Monday. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), CP Radhakrishnan, Vice-President of India and the Chairman of Rajya Sabha, wrote, "The demise of former Member of Parliament and veteran actor Shri Dharmendra Ji is an irreparable loss to Indian cinema. A cherished icon for millions, he enriched the canvas of Indian cinema through his remarkable performances and steadfast dedication to his art. As one of the most admired figures in our film industry, he leaves behind a timeless legacy that will continue to inspire generations of artistes. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and innumerable admirers."
Calling the news of the passing of Dharmendra heartbreaking, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla noted, "For a long time, he enriched Indian cinema with his acting. He was an exemplar of resilience who influenced millions through numerous excellent films and memorable cinematic dialogues. Dharmendra was also elected to the 14th Lok Sabha from the Bikaner parliamentary constituency in Rajasthan. His passing is an irreplaceable loss to the world of acting and art. I pray to God that the departed soul finds a place at His divine feet, and that He grants strength to the bereaved family and admirers during this unbearable time of grief."
Sharing a photo of her son, Yug Devgan, with Dharmendra, Bollywood icon Kajol wrote on Instagram, "The OG of the Good Man is gone and the world is poorer for it... Somehow, it seems like we are only losing the good people in it. Kind to the core and loved always. RIP Dharamji .. with love always."
Recalling that she received her first-ever signing amount for an acting role from Dharmendra's Vijayta Films, Priyanka Chopra wrote on Instagram, "One of the first Hindi movies I ever shot was under his banner, with his eldest son. He and his family made me feel welcome in the industry at a time when no one knew me. Very few people are capable of that kind of warmth and grace, towards a complete newcomer, who didn’t know anyone in Mumbai."
Recalling that she has worked with both Sunny and Bobby Deol, Dharmendra's sons, in multiple films, Priyanka added, "This (Dharmendra's demise) feels personal, and I know I share that feeling with many others in the world. Some people leave behind films, some leave behind feelings. He has left us with both. His presence was magnetic. He filled up a frame with his smile and charisma like only he could.
She added, "This is a big loss for cinema, but his legacy is permanent. As I type this note on a film set, in between shots, I think about how so many of us will always be inspired by him. Hailing from a small town with no Godfather and big dreams... he made a permanent mark in a tough industry... and he carried his family along. A true-blue Hindi film Hero. Rest in paradise, Dharamji."
Sharing that some artistes do more than entertain the masses and play a key role in shaping them, renowned Bollywood actor Dia Mirza Rekhi joined her colleagues in remembering Dharmendra. In a long post on Instagram, she wrote, "A true son of the soil... rooted in simplicity, warmth and goodness. Even at the height of superstardom, he stayed closest to the land that nurtured him. I will always hold dear those moments he shared from his farmhouse — feeding animals, touching trees with love, walking through the fields. In a fast world, he reminded us to live gently... to laugh, to love, to belong to nature."
She added, "Today, we honour the icon, and the farmer's son who carried the fragrance of 'mitti' (soil) wherever he went. Thank you, Dharmendra ji, for showing us what it means to live with an open heart and for showing us real strength is born from empathy. You live on — in our memories, and in every patch of earth where kindness grows. Deepest Condolences to his family, friends, and fans."
As a mark of respect for Dharmendra, the makers of the upcoming Telugu movie Peddi, starring Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, have postponed the special announcement that they had planned for Monday. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the film's makers wrote, "We are deeply saddened by the news of Dharmendra ji’s passing.
An era he defined can never be replaced. In this moment of grief and as a mark of respect, today’s announcement, scheduled for 4.05 PM, is being held back. Team #peddi conveys its heartfelt condolences and prayers to the entire family."
Paying tributes to his dear friend Dharmendra, 'Superstar' Rajinikanth wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "Farewell, my friend. I will always remember your golden heart and the moments we shared. Rest in peace, Dharam ji. My deepest condolences to his family."
Sharing a photo of herself with Dharmendra, actor Sushmita Sen fondly recalled the veteran actor. Describing him as an "incredible human being," she noted, "A legend yes, but what an incredible human being!!! He touched lives like a blessing. His hugs, laughter, kindness & immense goodness…all so contagious & life-affirming!!!"
She added, "The sheer joy on my face in the pictures with him, tells you the energy he embodied…and shared with such generosity. There are few, who leave the world more beautiful than the way they found it… I feel so grateful that I got to witness that grace through you Dharam ji. I love you Sir @aapkadharam Rest in peace."
As a mark of respect for Dharmendra, the organisers of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) have announced the cancellation of all entertainment events scheduled for Monday. "In light of the sad demise of legendary actor Shri Dharmendra Deol (08 Dec 1935 - 24 Nov 2025), all entertainment programmes scheduled for today, including Romtamel and other on-stage events on the promenade, have been cancelled. However, all festival film screenings across all venues will continue as per schedule."
Recalling the impact of Dharmendra and Sholay (1975) on her, Bollywood icon Juhi Chawla expressed immense sadness at the legendary actor's demise. She told SCREEN, "When I was a child, I watched Sholay so many times... again and again... The drunken Veeru (Dharmendra) on the village water tanker proposing to Basanti (Hema Malini); Veeru in the temple behind Shivji, fooling Basanti; Veeru & Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) on the scooter singing 'Ye Dosti'... Dharamji lit up the screen with his good looks, romance, strength and humour. And his iconic dance moves. Deeply, deeply saddened to hear this news."
Dharmendra's influence extended far beyond Bollywood celebrities, and he served as an inspiration to many across the country. Expressing his sadness at the legendary actor's demise, Telugu star Allu Arjun conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Legendary actor #dharmendra ji. A legend who touched millions of hearts. My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans."
Calling Dharmendra's demise heartbreaking, renowned actor Ameesha Patel wrote, "Just woke up in New York a few seconds ago to the most heartbreaking news! RIP not just the He-Man and most good-looking man of Bollywood, but the nicest, warmest and the most amazing human being in the industry! Will miss your warm hugs and sweetest smiles and always encouraging words."
Fans were seen sobbing and carrying Dharmendra's photos as they gathered outside the crematorium. Dharmendra passed away on Monday morning after ailing for some time. Fans were seen carrying his photos as they gathered outside, hoping to pay tribute to their idol. Police had to lock the gates and increase bandobast.
A complete outsider with no prior connections to Tinseltown whatsoever, Dharmendra entered the film industry after winning a national talent contest organised by a film magazine. However, in his early years in Mumbai, Dharmendra had to work at a few odd jobs so he could survive in the city. In an earlier appearance during a reality show, he recalled those early days in the city, and shared that since he didn’t have a house, he would live in a garage. Read More
The number of stars who arrived at the Pawan Hans crematorium underscores the kind of impact Dharmendra had on the film industry. One of the most celebrated and successful Bollywood actors of all time, Dharmendra served as an inspiration to many. Among those who arrived to pay their last respects to him were legendary thespian Shabana Azmi, and renowned film stars Jackie Shroff and Anil Kapoor.
Hundreds gathered at Pawan Hans crematorium, where Dharmendra's last rites were conducted. While some of the Deol family members left, Hema Malini, Esha Deol, Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan are still at the crematorium grounds. As hundreds gathered at the main entrance, people locked the doors.
Following his demise on Monday morning, Dharmendra's last rites were conducted at the Pawan Hans crematorium. Now, a video has surfaced online showing power couple Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone arriving for his funeral. Film and music producer Bhushan Kumar was also seen arriving to pay his last respects to the acting legend.
Revealing that Dharmendra was his parents' favourite actor, Manoj Bajpayee said that the acting legend was his childhood hero as well. Describing Dharmendra's demise as a personal loss, Manoj wrote on Instagram, "Dharam ji was my parents favourite and one of my childhood heroes. He had a warmth you felt even before he spoke. His dignity, his humour, and the way he carried himself on and off screen left a deep mark on everyone who met him or watched him. Losing him feels personal. His films, his love for people, and the gentle strength he stood for will stay with us."
Taking to Instagram, Bollywood star Akshay Kumar opened up about the impact Dharmendra had on him as a child and how the legendary thespian inspired many like him over the decades. "Growing up, Dharmendra ji was the hero every boy wanted to be...our industry's original He-Man. Thank you for inspiring generations. You'll live on through your films and the love you spread. Om Shanti."
Sharing an old photo of himself with Dharmendra, comedian and television host Kapil Sharma wrote a heartfelt note on Instagram, bidding goodbye to the legendary actor. Mentioning that it felt like losing his father for the second time, he noted that the love and blessings Dharmendra showered on him will remain in his heart and memories forever. "Goodbye, Dharma Paji. Your passing is so sad, it feels like losing my father for the second time. The love and blessings you gave me will always remain in my heart and memories. How to settle in someone's heart in a moment, no one knew it better than you. In our hearts, you will always be. May God place you in his feet."
Describing Dharmendra's demise as a major loss for Indian cinema, actor-turned-politician Isha Koppikar noted that the legendary thespian "redefined charm" in both real and reel life. "This feels like the end of an era... An irreplaceable loss to Indian cinema. A man who redefined charm, strength, and emotion both on-screen and off-screen," she wrote while sharing an old photo of Dharmendra on her Instagram story.
In a career spanning six decades, Dharmendra appeared in over 300 films and ruled Bollywood for years. Widely regarded as one of the most successful actors in the history of the Hindi film industry, he reportedly delivered more hits than his contemporaries like Amitabh Bachchan or even his successors like Shah Rukh Khan. Check out Dharmendra's best movies list here
Noting that she has never come across another actor with a heart as big as Dharmendra's, actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra wrote on social media that the legendary thespian was characterised by his immense humility, simplicity, and kindness, which, she said, has inspired her as well. "I've had the privilege of working with many talented actors, but none with a bigger heart than yours. Your talent, charm and dashing looks were just the beginning but your humility, simplicity and kindness were so inspiring. You were a true original, a shining star that touched so many hearts. Rest in peace you special soul. Dharamji, you will be missed. Om Shanti," she wrote.
Taking to social media to pay tribute to Dharmendra, actor Sanjay Dutt noted that Bollywood's 'He-Man' was one of those rare people who not only enter others' lives but also find a place in their hearts. Along with a few old photos of the legendary thespian, Sanjay Dutt wrote, "Some people don’t just work in your life… they live in your heart. Dharam ji was one of them. It’s a void that can’t be described. My thoughts are with Sunny, Bobby, and the entire family."
Following the demise of Dharmendra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to pay tribute to the legendary actor. He also expressed his heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family members. Calling the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’ an “iconic film personality and a phenomenal actor,” Modi noted that Dharmendra was also known for his “simplicity and humility.” Read More
One of the most accomplished and celebrated actors in the history of Bollywood, Dharmendra had married twice. At the height of his career, the actor, already married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he has four children (including Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol), tied the knot with his frequent co-star Hema Malini in 1980. They eventually welcomed two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. In an old interview, he spoke about his kids and how he never differentiated between them. Read More
Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra passed away on Monday morning in Mumbai from age-related ailments. He was 89. Police sources at the cremation ground confirmed to The Indian Express. The veteran actor, who had worked in over 300 films over his storied career, had been ailing for a month. His last rites were conducted at the Pawan Hans crematorium. Dharmendra would have turned 90 on December 8 this year.
Shah Rukh Khan also reached Pawan Hans to be with the Deol family. Earlier, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Sanjay Dutt were seen reaching there.
After Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Salman Khan was seen arriving at Pawan hans to meet the Deols. Dharmendra's family arrived there with an ambulance some hours ago.
Sanjay Dutt arrives at Pawan Hans. Dharmendra's family arrived there with an ambulance some hours ago.
Kiara Advani shared an old photo of Dharmendra on her Instagram stories.
Zayed Khan was seen arriving at Pawan Hans ground.
Salim Khan, who is celebrating his 90th birthday today was seen at the Pawan Hans ground.
Actor Pulkit Samrat posted an old photo of Dharmendra and wrote, "There are actors… and then there are pillars!! Dharam ji held up entire generations with his courage, charm and goodness!! Today..cinema loses a father figure…! We grew up watching him punch villains, charm the world and protect the ones he loved.. But the real hero was always the man behind the legend!! Dharam ji, thank you for the goodness you carried so effortlessly.. The industry feels emptier today 💔 🙏 #rip."
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar shared some old photos with Dharmendra and posted on X, "I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the legendary Dharmendra ji, the real He-Man of Indian cinema. I had the privilege of meeting him many times, he was always vibrant & full of humor. His remarkable contributions mark the end of an era in Indian cinema and will be eternally remembered. Om Shanti. 🙏."
Kareena Kaooor Khan posted a series of photos of Dharmendra. First two featured the actor with Kareena's granddaughter and veteran actor Raj Kapoor. "Forever in power, read the text on one photo, while on another she wrote, "Chardi Kala" which is a Punjabi phrase, fundamental to Sikhism, that means "ever-rising spirit" or "ever-ascending state of the spirit".
Just a few days ago, filmmaker Anil Sharma shared an old photo of Dharmendra and wrote, "Just going thru nostalgic journey of mine with @aapkadharam found this .. what a lovely moment n photograph when dharam ji with his mother one side n #hukumat golden jublee trophy other side .. se the innocence on dharam ji face KAMAL KE LAMHE ..KAMAL KE DIN …."
Filmmaker Anil Sharma seen arriving at the Pawan Hans ground. Any official update by the Deols on Dharmendra' is still awaited. Deol family was seen arriving at Pawan hans with the ambulance earlier.
Dharmendra's Ikkis co-star Agastya Ananda was seen reaching Pawan Hans ground.
Karan Johar took to Instagram to post, "It is an end of an ERA….. a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence … he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema… defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history … but mostly he was the best human being… he was so loved by everyone in our industry …. He only had immense love and positivity for everyone … his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe …. Today there is a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled by anyone … there will always be and one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much…. The heavens are blessed today…. It will always be my blessing to have worked with you…. And my heart says with respect, reverence and love…. Abhi Na jao chodke…. Ke dil abhi bhara nahi……OM SHANTI🕉️."
Not only Amitabh Bachchan but his actor son Abhishek was also seen reaching Pawan Hans ground.
Amitabh Bachchan was seen at Pawan Hans where Dharmendra's family was seen earlier.
Aamir Khan was seen at Pawan Hans where Dharmendra's family was seen reaching earlier.
Hema Malini reaches Pawan Hans where Dharmendra's family was seen earlier.
Many members of the Deol family were seen arriving at veteran actor's residence.
Filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi was spotted arriving at veteran actor's residence.
Esha Deol's ex-husband was also seen at Dharmendra's residence in Juhu.
Daughter Esha Deol was seen reaching the veteran actor's residence in Juhu.
An ambulance was spotted at Dharmendra's home which left the fans worried. An official statement on his health is awaited.
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