Did Bollywood just lose its greatest hero? Dharmendra passes away at 89 as stars rush to Mumbai
Did Bollywood just lose its greatest hero? Dharmendra passes away at 89 as stars rush to Mumbai
In a deeply emotional turn of events, Bollywood fans across the world have been gripped by concern, confusion, and grief as updates surrounding legendary actor Dharmendra’s health continue to unfold. What began as a routine hospitalisation in Mumbai quickly spiralled into a wave of rumours and heightened media frenzy, leaving the actor’s family struggling to navigate the intense public spotlight.
Just a few days ago, Dharmendra was admitted to a Mumbai hospital for age-related health complications. Reports initially confirmed that he was responding well to treatment and had even been discharged to recover at home with his family. However, peace was short-lived. On Monday morning, an ambulance was seen leaving the actor’s Juhu residence under tight security, sparking renewed anxiety about his condition. A video shared by ANI soon added fuel to the speculation, noting that several celebrities had begun arriving at the residence and that an official health update was still awaited.
The tense atmosphere was further compounded by the behaviour of paparazzi who continued to crowd around the home despite repeated pleas from the family for privacy. On November 13, Dharmendra’s son and actor, Sunny Deol, stepped outside visibly distressed. Overwhelmed by the relentless pursuit of photographers during such a delicate family moment, he confronted the paparazzi, asking, “Aapke ghar mein maa-baap hain… Sharam nahi aati?” His plea for personal space quickly went viral, capturing both his frustration and the emotional strain the family had been enduring.
Prior to this, the Deol family released a statement confirming Dharmendra’s discharge from the hospital, urging the media to stop speculating and allow the actor to recover peacefully at home. “We appreciate everyone’s love, prayers and good wishes,” the family’s message read. “Please respect him because he loves you.”
Sadly, the situation took a heartbreaking turn. By Monday afternoon, multiple sources confirmed that Dharmendra had passed away at the age of 89. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema—a career spanning decades, filled with timeless films, unforgettable characters, and an enduring influence on generations of actors and filmmakers.
The news quickly drew an outpouring of tributes. Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, and Madhur Bhandarkar were among those who arrived at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans crematorium to pay their last respects. Kareena Kapoor shared a nostalgic photo of Dharmendra hugging her grandfather Raj Kapoor, captioning it with “Forever in Power” and “Chardi Kala,” honouring his iconic legacy.
Filmmaker Karan Johar penned an emotional tribute, calling Dharmendra “a massive megastar… the embodiment of a hero… and the warmest human being.” He added that the void left behind by the actor’s death “can never be filled by anyone.”
Dharmendra is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, his second wife and acclaimed actress Hema Malini, and his six children—including Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol.
Even on the day of his passing, his presence echoed through Bollywood. The makers of his upcoming film Ikkis released a poster calling him a “timeless legend,” a fitting tribute to a man whose contribution to cinema remains immeasurable.
As fans mourn across the world, Dharmendra’s warmth, humility, and heroism—both on and off screen—will continue to define his legacy for generations to come.
FAQ
1. What caused Dharmendra’s death?
The family has not publicly disclosed the exact cause, but reports indicate age-related complications.
2. How old was Dharmendra when he passed away?
Dharmendra was 89 years old.
3. Who are Dharmendra’s immediate family members?
He is survived by Prakash Kaur, Hema Malini, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Ahana Deol, Vijeta, and Ajeita.
4. Where will Dharmendra’s last rites take place?
His cremation is being held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai.
5. Which celebrities visited to pay their respects?
Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Karan Johar, and many others.