By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Legendary Indian actor Dharmendra Krishan Deol has died at the age of 89 in Mumbai, closing a chapter in Bollywood history that spanned more than six decades.
Tributes poured in from across India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi writing on X on Monday that the veteran actor’s passing signalled “the end of an era.”
Dharmendra, adored by generations of film lovers, appeared in over 300 movies and stood out for his ability to move effortlessly between action, romance, comedy, and drama. Many remember him most vividly as Veeru in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay, a role that cemented his place among India’s most iconic performers.
Born on 8 December 1935 in Ludhiana, Punjab, he grew up far from the glamour of the industry he would later dominate. His rise began after he won a talent search that propelled him to Bombay, where he made his debut in 1960. His first major break came with Bimal Roy’s Bandini in 1963, setting him on the path to decades of hit films.
Often hailed as Bollywood’s “original He-Man,” he gained fame not only for his screen presence but also for his striking looks. His pairing with actress Hema Malini captivated audiences for years before the two married in 1980.
Over his illustrious career, Dharmendra delivered memorable performances in films like Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and the beloved comedy Chupke Chupke. Though he did not always dominate the box office as the industry’s top star, he became one of its most enduring and influential figures.
His contributions were widely recognised. He received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and was later conferred the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2012.
Dharmendra’s passing leaves behind a legacy of timeless performances and an indelible impact on Bollywood.