Veteran Actor Dharmendra Dies, Political Leaders Mourn Loss Of Bollywood Legend

Last Updated:November 24, 2025, 14:40 IST

Dharmendra, legendary Bollywood actor known as He-Man, passed away at 89. Anil Deshmukh and Sharad Pawar mourn his loss, recalling iconic roles in Sholay and other classics.

As India mourns the passing of Dharmendra at 89, fans are revisiting the legendary dialogues that defined his charisma, intensity, and humour.

NCP leader (SP) and former Maharashtra minister Anil Deshmukh on Monday expressed deep grief over the passing of veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, calling his death a “shocking" loss for Indian cinema.

In a post on X, Deshmukh said the legendary actor — whose career spanned six decades and over 300 films — had “slipped behind the curtain of time," leaving millions of admirers mourning.

Deshmukh remembered Dharmendra as both “an excellent actor and a generous friend," noting that the star delivered unforgettable performances in films such as Phool Aur Patthar, Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, Dharam Veer, Aankhen, Raja Jani, Gulaami, Pratiggya, and Yaadon Ki Baaraat.

Calling him a “versatile icon of the film world," Deshmukh said Dharmendra brought authenticity and emotional depth to every role he played, and that his absence leaves a void in Indian cinema.

The actor’s death has triggered an outpouring of condolences from across the film industry and political spectrum.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar also expressed his grief over the passing of Dharmendra, describing the actor as a cinematic icon who left an indelible mark on Indian audiences.

Pawar reminisced about the actor’s iconic character ‘Veeru’ from Sholay, calling it “a symbol of close friendship and a dynamic hero" that continues to resonate with fans. He added that scenes such as Dharmendra atop the water tank in Sholay are still fondly referenced in popular culture, including by political workers during protest movements.

Pawar concluded by paying “heartfelt tribute to the ‘Dharam Paaji’ of the film industry" and extending condolences to the actor’s family.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also remembered Dharmendra as a man of remarkable talent and humility, saying the legendary star will be missed not only for his cinematic achievements but also for his simplicity and personal warmth.

“Dharmendra was not just a good actor but also a good and simple human being. I had a personal connection with him. He was committed to the country and the farmers. His work in films cannot be forgotten. The film industry has suffered a huge loss with his passing away. He used to come and meet me. I have good relations with his sons and Hema Malini ji," he said.

Legendary Indian actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’, passed away at the age of 89. The veteran star breathed his last on November 24, 2025, just days after being discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he had been admitted for a routine checkup.

Dharmendra had been facing age-related health challenges for some time, with periodic hospital visits in recent months.

News politics Veteran Actor Dharmendra Dies, Political Leaders Mourn Loss Of Bollywood Legend

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