Dharmendra, One Of Bollywood’s Most Beloved Actors, Dies At 89; IANS Confirms

Veteran actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated and charismatic stars, has passed away at the age of 89.

Sources close to IANS confirmed the news, marking the end of an illustrious career that spanned more than six decades and more than 300 films.

Doctors discharged Dharmendra from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on 12 November in stable condition, and he continued his recovery at home.

Dr Rajiv Sharma confirmed that the actor left the hospital fully satisfied with the treatment and said the medical team had arranged everything necessary for his ongoing care at home.

The doctor had urged the public not to spread misinformation and instead pray for the actor’s recovery, noting that his family hoped he would celebrate his 90th birthday on 8 December.

However, the veteran star had been in critical condition earlier. On 10 November, sources indicated that Dharmendra was on life support, and by 31 October, he had already been placed under strict medical observation by senior doctors at the same hospital.

A Stellar Career

Regarded as one of the most handsome and successful stars in Hindi cinema, Dharmendra enjoyed unmatched popularity from the 1960s through the 1980s.

He made his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and soon rose to prominence with films such as Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke.

Over the next two decades, he delivered a remarkable number of hits, with iconic performances in films including Sholay, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Seeta Aur Geeta, Jugnu, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Charas, Dharam Veer, The Burning Train, Chupke Chupke, and Pratiggya. He holds the record for the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema history.

Dharmendra also excelled in parallel cinema and emotional dramas, with memorable roles in Bandini, Anupama, Satyakam, Haqeeqat, and Naya Zamana.

He seamlessly transitioned to character roles in later decades, earning acclaim for films such as Life in a… Metro, Apne, Johnny Gaddaar, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.

His Last Projects

Dharmendra last appeared in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024), starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon.

He was set to appear next in Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis, a war drama on the life of Arun Khetarpal, featuring Agastya Nanda, Simar Bhatia, Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher.

Honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2012, Dharmendra’s contribution to Indian cinema remains unparalleled.

His charm, versatility, and enduring screen presence earned him generations of admirers. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy treasured by millions.

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