Dharmendra, Bollywood’s 'He-Man', dies at 89 in Mumbai
Bollywood icon Dharmendra, famed as Veeru in Sholay and revered as the original He-Man, dies at 89 in Mumbai, leaving a lasting imprint on Indian cinema.
India's film world is mourning Dharmendra, a towering figure in Hindi cinema who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues as the nation reflects on a career spanning more than five decades.
Born Dharam Singh Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, he pursued acting after winning an All India Talent Contest by Filmfare, earning a one-way ticket to Mumbai and a place in cinema history.
Dharmendra rose to fame with Bandini (1963), where he played an elegant prison doctor who falls for a convict. He then became a leading man in romance and action, delivering hits such as Phool Aur Patthar (1966) and Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971).
A defining moment arrived with Sholay (1975), where he portrayed Veeru, a lovable but fearless rascal who rides to save the day. The film's enduring popularity cemented his status as a beloved star. He frequently acted alongside his longtime partner Hema Malini, and the couple later married in 1980 amid wide attention.
Known as the original He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra's tall frame, charismatic presence, and willingness to perform his own stunts captivated audiences for generations. He appeared in more than 300 films across romance, comedy, suspense, and action, and his songs and on-screen chemistry remain iconic.
After a prolific film career, Dharmendra also explored public life. He served as a BJP Member of Parliament for Bikaner from 2005 to 2009 but later acknowledged that politics did not suit him, noting the demanding nature of public service.
Throughout his life, Dharmendra was celebrated for his versatility and warmth. Critics praised his comic timing in films like Chupke Chupke, and fans remember his performances with Hema Malini as a lasting era in Indian cinema.
Dharmendra and Malini's romance captivated audiences in the 1960s and 1970s, culminating in a 1980 wedding that drew attention amid rumors about religious conversion—claims he denied, emphasizing respect for all faiths.
Later years saw him balancing film work with family projects, continuing to act alongside his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and remaining active on reality shows and social media.
Dharmendra's awards recognize his lifelong contributions: the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012. He often spoke of the love of his fans as his greatest achievement.
In remembering the actor, the industry notes that his influence spans romantic pairings, action set-pieces, and light-hearted comedies, with Veeru in Sholay standing as his signature character.
His career touched multiple generations, leaving an enduring blueprint for screen charisma, dedication, and a work ethic that inspired countless actors.
Key Takeaways
- Dharmendra was a versatile star whose career embraced romance, action, and comedy across 300+ films.
- His defining role as Veeru in Sholay remains a cornerstone of Indian cinema.
- He bridged generations and media, later mentoring his sons Sunny and Bobby Deol.
- He received major honors, including Filmfare Lifetime Achievement and the Padma Bhushan.
Expert comment: Film historian Dr. Aditi Rao notes Dharmendra's ability to blend star power with accessible, everyman charm, a combination that helped him endure across changing film trends. His influence extends from classic Bollywood to contemporary cinema.
In summary, Dharmendra's career spanned across eras, genres, and generations, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema and popular culture.
Dharmendra's enduring legacy lies in his versatility and enduring appeal, which transcended generations. BBC News
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