Dharmendra dies at 89: PM Narendra Modi pays respect
What's the story
Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the "He-Man" of Indian cinema, passed away on Monday. He was 89. The news was confirmed by filmmaker Karan Johar, although a family statement is awaited. The actor had been discharged from Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital on November 12 and was believed to be stable and recovering at home. He would have turned 90 on December 8. Now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered his condolences.
Twitter Post
'My thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans'
The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2025
Career highlights
President Murmu also expressed her condolences
Alongside the PM, President Droupadi Murmu and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also paid their last respect. Several film stars, including Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, and Salman Khan were seen at the cremation grounds. Meanwhile, Dharmendra was last seen in 2024's Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. He was also set to appear in Sriram Raghavan's war drama Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda. The film is scheduled to release on December 25.
Cinematic journey
Dharmendra's legacy in Indian cinema
Dharmendra is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most successful stars in Indian cinema. His career, which spanned over six decades, saw him work in over 300 films. He also holds the record for appearing in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema. In 2012, he was honored with a Padma Bhushan award for his contributions to Indian cinema.
Stardom
Dharmendra's rise to superstardom
Dharmendra made his acting debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He rose to fame in the mid-1960s with films like Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke. From the late 1960s to the 1980s, he acted in many hit films such as Ankhen, Shikar, Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, Jeevan Mrityu, Mera Gaon Mera Desh and Seeta Aur Geeta among others.
Later career
Dharmendra's memorable roles in later years
In the late 1990s and beyond, Dharmendra appeared in several popular films in character roles. These include Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Life In A... Metro, Apne, Johnny Gaddaar and Yamla Pagla Deewana among others. His 2023 film was Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani which was directed by Johar.