The curtain fell on a golden chapter of Indian cinema with the passing of legendary actor Dharmendra Deol on Monday. He was 89.
The news was met with an outpouring of grief from across the nation and the film industry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, stating on his X handle that the actor’s demise “marks the end of an era.”
Dharmendra’s career was a testament to his enduring appeal, spanning over six decades and 300 films. He cemented his place in cinematic history with his iconic portrayal of the boisterous Veeru in the timeless classic Sholay (1975).
His remarkable versatility allowed him to dominate diverse genres, from intense action in Phool Aur Patthar and rugged thrillers like Mera Gaon Mera Desh to nuanced romance and the impeccable comedy of Chupke Chupke.
Hailing from a humble background in Ludhiana, Punjab, Dharmendra’s journey to stardom began when he won a national talent contest, which paved his way to Bombay.
His debut in Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960) was followed by a critical breakthrough in Bimal Roy’s Bandini (1963).
Beyond his filmography, Dharmendra was celebrated as Bollywood’s “original He-Man” and one of its most handsome stars. His legendary on-screen pairing with actress Hema Malini captivated audiences and culminated in their marriage in 1980.
Though he never formally held the “number one” spot, Dharmendra’s career was decorated with accolades, including the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1997) and the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, in 2012. He is survived by a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.