With the passing of legendary screen actor Dharmendra at the age of 89, it truly marks the end of Bollywood and Indian cinema’s golden age where he reigned supreme as one of the most handsome of the chocolate heroes and truly the ideal man that women desired. There was a reason the veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra was known as the ‘He-Man’ as he made his presence felt all over the world where machismo and beauty was appreciated. Dharam Paaji’s six-decade career featured iconic roles in films like Sholay and Chupke Chupke. Dharmendra’s versatile performances and warm persona cemented his status as a beloved and enduring star in Indian cinema.

By PD Raj – Senior Reporter DESIBUZZCanada 

With News Files

MUMBAI – With the passing of legendary screen actor Dharmendra at the age of 89, it truly marks the end of Bollywood and Indian cinema’s golden age where he reigned supreme as one of the most handsome of the chocolate heroes and truly the ideal man that women desired. 

There was a reason the veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra was known as the ‘He-Man’ as he made his presence felt all over the world where machismo and beauty was appreciated.

Dharam Paaji’s six-decade career featured iconic roles in films like Sholay and Chupke Chupke. Dharmendra’s versatile performances and warm persona cemented his status as a beloved and enduring star in Indian cinema.

Dharmendra’s career spans over six decades, and his impact on Indian cinema is unparalleled. He became a household name in the 1960s and 70s with iconic performances in films like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Anupama and Satte Pe Satta.

Known for his rugged good looks, strong on-screen presence and action flair, he was widely celebrated as the original “He-Man” of Bollywood.

Over the years, Dharmendra showed his versatile acting chops, from romantic leads to comedy and action roles. His warm persona off-screen made him even more beloved, earning the affectionate title “Dharam Paaji” among fans and industry peers.

Members of the film fraternity and fans alike are reacting to the news with grief and nostalgia, remembering his charismatic screen presence and deep contributions to Indian cinema. Several celebrities also arrived to attend the last rites of ‘Bollywood’s Veeru’.

Tributes have begun pouring in from across the film fraternity. Filmmaker Karan Johar shared an emotional and said it is an end of an era. 

“It is an end of 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,” Johar penned an emotional post.

PM Narendra Modi, too, condoled the demise of the veteran actor. “The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti.” — narendramodi (@narendramodi)

Dharmendra last appeared in the film Ikkis, Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming film in which he plays M. L. Khetarpal, father of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee.

The makers described him as “an emotional powerhouse” while sharing his character poster. Maddock Films wrote, “One timeless legend brings us the story of another.” The film, starring Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher, is set to release worldwide on December 25, 2025.

Dharmendra is survived by wives Hema Malini and Prakash Kaur, and his children, including actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughters Esha Deol, Ahana Deol, Ajeita Deol and Vijeta Deol.

Dharmendra leaves behind a cinematic legacy defined by charm, strength and emotional depth — a body of work that made him one of Indian cinema’s most loved and enduring stars.