Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the “He-Man” of Hindi cinema, has passed away at the age of 89 on November 24, 2025, following a prolonged illness. His departure marks the end of an era for Indian cinema, where his charismatic presence graced the screen for over six decades. Dharmendra’s illustrious career boasted more than 300 films, solidifying his status as one of the most influential stars in Indian film history. Beyond his acting prowess, he cultivated a significant business empire, with an estimated net worth ranging from Rs 335 crore to Rs 450 crore (approximately $40 million to $54 million USD), showcasing a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit.
Dharmendra’s personal life was as rich as his professional one. He is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and their six children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol. He was also a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren, maintaining close bonds with his entire family until his final days. His warmth and affection were widely recognized, adding another cherished dimension to his legacy.
Even in his late eighties, Dharmendra remained active in the film industry. His last on-screen appearance was in the 2024 film ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya,’ where he portrayed Shahid Kapoor’s grandfather. Fans will have one final opportunity to see his magic in the upcoming release of ‘Ikkis,’ directed by Sriram Raghavan.
Throughout his career, Dharmendra delivered unforgettable performances in cinematic gems like ‘Sholay,’ ‘Chupke Chupke,’ ‘Dharam Veer,’ ‘Satyakam,’ and ‘Seeta Aur Geeta.’ His unique blend of charm, versatility, and commanding screen presence earned him immense admiration and the iconic “He-Man” title.
Outside the realm of acting, Dharmendra demonstrated keen business acumen. His substantial wealth was attributed to diverse investments including real estate, restaurant ventures, and film production. A significant asset was his 100-acre farmhouse in Lonavala, featuring extensive gardens, equestrian facilities, and agricultural zones. Rumors suggested plans for a luxury resort development on a portion of this land. He also owned various commercial and residential properties across Maharashtra and cherished his collection of automobiles, from luxury models to classic Fiat.
Venturing into hospitality, Dharmendra established popular themed eateries like ‘Garam Dharam Dhaba’ and ‘He-Man,’ which celebrated his iconic on-screen persona. He also extended his influence in filmmaking through production, notably with the ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana’ series.
Dharmendra’s journey from earning Rs 51 for his debut film to building a multi-crore empire stands as one of Indian cinema’s most inspiring success stories. He is remembered not only for his legendary acting but also for his business acumen, humility, and the deep family values he held dear. His legacy will continue to inspire, resonating through his films, his entrepreneurial endeavors, and the hearts of generations of fans.
