Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as Hindi cinema’s “He-Man” for over six decades, has passed away at the age of 89. He died at his Mumbai residence on November 24, 2025. While an official cause of death is yet to be announced by his family, sources indicate he had been experiencing fluctuating health in recent weeks. His passing comes just before his 90th birthday, which was scheduled for December. Dharmendra’s illustrious career spanned an incredible six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His absence will be deeply felt by the industry and his legion of devoted fans.
The legendary actor’s health had been a subject of public concern recently. On November 13, 2025, he was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after his condition worsened. This prompted visits from numerous well-wishers, including his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, as well as prominent figures like Hema Malini, Salman Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan. The family had confirmed he was stable and under medical observation, requesting privacy. This hospitalization followed an earlier admission on October 31, which was then described by his team as a routine check-up with no cause for concern.
False death rumors circulated online shortly after his hospitalizations, causing significant distress. His daughter, Esha Deol, swiftly addressed these rumors, confirming her father was stable and recovering, and urged the public to cease spreading unverified news. She expressed frustration with the “media overdrive” and requested privacy for her family.
Later, Hema Malini reassured fans that Dharmendra was hospitalized purely for observation and was being continuously monitored. She thanked supporters for their concern and shared a throwback image of the actor to evoke his vibrant spirit. Paparazzi footage also showed Bobby Deol visiting his father at the hospital.
Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on November 12, 2025, with doctors stating he left “fully satisfied” after receiving necessary treatment. Close family members indicated he would continue to receive home treatment under medical supervision.
A deeply personal video from the hospital, showing Dharmendra with his emotional sons and grandsons, surfaced online, drawing widespread criticism for the invasion of privacy. Following his discharge, Sunny Deol was seen reacting to paparazzi outside his father’s residence.
Dharmendra’s final on-screen appearance was in ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.’ He was slated to appear in Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming war drama ‘Ikkis,’ set for release on December 25, 2025.
