Dharmendra passes away at 89 at his residence in Mumbai, Karan Johar posts: 'Abhi na jao chodke'

Bollywood is mourning the loss of legendary and veteran actor Dharmendra who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89, just days shy of his 90th birthday on December 8. Known affectionately as the 'He-Man of Bollywood', the veteran actor, whose unparalleled career spanned over six decades and 300 films, had recently been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital and was said to be recuperating. However, on November 24, in the afternoon, an ambulance was spotted leaving his house and several celebs reached the Pawan Hans crematorium in Juhu. While his family is yet to issue an official statement, filmmaker Karan Johar publicly confirmed the news of his demise. Several celebrities have also shared their heartfelt condolences across social media platforms.

The actor had not been keeping well since November 1 when he was admitted to the hospital. His last film, now a posthomous release, will be Sriram Raghavan's 'Ikkis' also starring Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat. The film is scheduled for a release on December 25, 2025.

Karan Johar's emotional social media post

Karan Johar took to his Instagram handle and wrote in an emotional post, "It is an end of an ERA….. a massive mega star… the embodiment of a HERO in mainstream cinema… incredibly handsome and the most enigmatic screen presence … he is and will always be a bonafide Legend of Indian Cinema… defining and richly present in the pages of cinema history … but mostly he was the best human being… he was so loved by everyone in our industry …. He only had immense love and positivity for everyone … his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe …. Today there is a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled by anyone … there will always be the one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much…. The heavens are blessed today…. It will always be my blessing to have worked with you…. And my heart says with respect, reverence and love…. Abhi Na jao chodke…. Ke dil abhi bhara nahi……OM SHANTI"

Notably, the late actor was seen in Karan Johar's 2023 film, 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani' with Shabana Azmi, Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh and Jaya Bachchan.

The legacy of 'Garam Dharam' and his void in Hindi cinema

The late actor was last seen in 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya' in 2024. His versatility was his hallmark. He went on to seamlessly transition between being the romantic hero in films like 'Phool Aur Patthar' (1966) and 'Aaye Din Bahar Ke', to the rugged action star in films such as 'Dharam Veer' and 'Hukumat'. However, the most iconic role of his career was the lovable rogue Veeru in Ramesh Sippy's 1975 film 'Sholay'. His absence surely leaves a void in Hindi cinema as his 'good looks' coupled with innate charm and signature dance moves and songs like the iconic 'Yamla Pagla Deewana', all of this can only be associated with him. He's remained a favourite, not just for women but also has a huge fan following among men.

Dharmendra: The 'He-Man' of Bollywood

Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, he ventured into cinema in 1960 with the film 'Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.' Dharmendra quickly rose to stardom in the mid-1960s with romantic and dramatic roles in films like 'Phool Aur Patthar' (1966) and 'Anupama' (1966).

His initial stardom was built on his striking good looks and ability to master both drama and comedy, as exemplified in Hrishikesh Mukerjee's 'Chupke Chupke.' He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2012.

Dharmendra's family

The late actor Dharmendra was married to Prakash Kaur and later to his frequent co-star of many films, actress Hema Malini. He has six children, including Bollywood actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta with Prakash Kaur; and actress Esha Deol and Ahana Deol with Hema Malini.

See More: Dharmendra last rites: Esha Deol breaks into tears, Hema Malini folds hands; Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan and other celebs leave crematorium after paying final respects

Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here