Africa-Press – Seychelles. Legendary Indian actor, Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol has died in Mumbai at the age of 89, marking the close of a storied era in Bollywood.
Tributes poured in across India on Monday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing his death as the end of an era in a message posted on X.
Dharmendra’s career stretched across more than 60 years, during which he featured in over 300 films and earned a reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile performers.
From action and romance to comedy and intense drama, he delivered memorable performances that shaped the golden age of Bollywood.
His portrayal of Veeru in the 1975 classic Sholay remains one of the most celebrated roles in Indian film history.
Born on December 8, 1935, in Ludhiana, Punjab, Dharmendra rose from humble origins before emerging as a household name.
His journey began after winning a nationwide talent search, which led him to Bombay, now Mumbai, where he debuted in 1960.
His performance in Bimal Roy’s Bandini (1963) propelled him into the spotlight and opened the door to a long run of box-office successes.
Widely known as Bollywood’s “original He-Man,” Dharmendra earned admiration not only for his rugged charm but also for his commanding screen presence.
His partnership with actress Hema Malini became one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen pairings, and the two later married in 1980.
Among his standout films are Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and the comedy classic Chupke Chupke.
Although he never claimed the industry’s undisputed number-one position, he enjoyed a stature that few actors achieved, consistent, bankable, and deeply respected.
Dharmendra’s contributions were recognised with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in 2012. His passing leaves behind a towering legacy that has shaped generations of Indian cinema lovers.
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