Indian cinema woke up to heartbreaking news on Monday morning as an iconic presence from Bollywood’s golden era fell silent forever. For decades, Dharmendra stood as a symbol of charm, emotion, action, and cinematic elegance, shaping the memories of generations. Tributes began pouring in instantly, reflecting the deep love he commanded both within the industry and among audiences. His warmth, humility, and unmistakable screen aura made him a figure who transcended eras and trends. An entire nation now mourns a man whose films, dialogues, and legacy defined Hindi cinema in its most unforgettable form. The void left behind is immeasurable, both emotionally and culturally.
Legendary Indian actor Dharmendra passes away at 89: End of a cinematic era
Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra passed away on Monday morning at his Mumbai residence, bringing an emotional end to a glorious chapter in Indian cinema. The 89-year-old actor had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on October 31 after experiencing breathlessness, but despite improvement efforts, his condition deteriorated over the past few days. His final rites are set to take place at the Pawan Hans crematorium, where colleagues, admirers, and family are expected to gather for a deeply emotional farewell. What makes his passing even more poignant is that it came just days before his landmark 90th birthday on December 8, a milestone many in the industry were preparing to celebrate.
Dharmendra’s career spanned more than six decades, gifting Indian cinema some of its greatest classics, from rugged action spectacles like Sholay to tender romances and timeless family dramas. His effortless switch between genres made him one of the most versatile actors of his time. But beyond the screen persona, Dharmendra was adored for his humility, gentle humour, and unwavering warmth toward colleagues, newcomers, and fans alike. Social media turned into a sea of condolences, with actors, filmmakers, politicians, and admirers celebrating not just his stardom but the kindness that defined him. His death marks not merely the passing of a superstar, but the closing of an era where films were felt, not manufactured, and stars were loved for their humanity as much as their craft.
Dharmendra final film ‘Ikkis’ becomes a posthumous farewell to fans
Just weeks before his passing, Dharmendra completed shooting for Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis, a project that will now serve as his cinematic farewell. Featuring Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, the film is slated for release on December 25, 2025, and is expected to carry an extraordinary emotional weight as audiences prepare to watch Dharmendra on the big screen one last time. Those associated with the film revealed how committed and spirited he remained on set, often sharing stories, cracking gentle jokes, and offering guidance to younger actors with the grace of a true veteran.
What makes this goodbye even more memorable is that Dharmendra’s love extended far beyond cinema, he was a devoted follower of cricket, frequently cheering for the Indian team and appreciating players publicly. Many cricketers and sports personalities joined Bollywood in mourning, remembering him as a warm presence who celebrated India’s victories with as much passion as any fan in the stands. With Ikkis, audiences will witness not just a performance, but the final heartbeat of a legendary career, a film that will inevitably become a historic moment in Indian film history. His departure leaves behind stories, emotions, and a legacy that will live for generations, a true ‘He-Man’ of Indian cinema, both on and off the screen.
Here’s how cricketers reacted:
You stood tall, not just in stature, but in spirit.
Dharmendra ji, thank you for showing us strength can be kind.
Om Shanti 🙏 pic.twitter.com/aruEYqtcHk— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) November 24, 2025
Every home had a favourite Dharmendra film. He was a part of our growing up and of Indian cinema’s finest years.
He brought strength, charm and honesty to every role, and carried Punjab’s warmth wherever he went.
Behind the fame was a humble, grounded and deeply human soul.… pic.twitter.com/116K0XHuP5
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) November 24, 2025
Heartfelt tribute to Dharmendra Ji — a timeless icon whose grace, strength, and unparalleled charm have left an everlasting mark on Indian cinema. From his powerful performances to his warmth both on and off screen, he touched countless hearts and inspired generations.
His films,… pic.twitter.com/pfgQlDkQsE— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) November 24, 2025
Dharamendra ji was not just a superstar—he was emotion, charm, and the soul of an entire generation of cinema. Thank you for the memories you gave us. Rest in peace, He-Man of Bollywood. Om Shanti. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/K4RFKwRvs7
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) November 24, 2025
The end of an era. Bollywood’s beloved He-Man, Dharmendra Ji, is no more. His timeless films, warmth, and unforgettable legacy will continue to live in our hearts for generations. From a small village in Punjab to the heart of Indian cinema, his journey will forever inspire.… pic.twitter.com/erRsawmdBM
— IamKedar (@JadhavKedar) November 24, 2025
धर्मेन्द्र जी सिर्फ अभिनेता नहीं थे, एक युग थे।
सादगी में सितारा, ताकत में ही-मैन और दिल में सोना।
उनकी फ़िल्में, उनका अंदाज़ और उनकी गर्मजोशी
पीढ़ियों तक याद रखी जाएगी।
एक महान कलाकार,
ईश्वर उनकी आत्मा को शांति दे। ॐ शांति #Dharmendra pic.twitter.com/fzaBN6kFrP— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 24, 2025
#DharmendraDeol you will be Missed Sir#Dharamji pic.twitter.com/uhqOgRX8D2
— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) November 24, 2025
“My sincere condolences on the passing of Dharmendra ji. His contribution to Indian cinema was monumental — his warmth, strength, and charisma touched generations. May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind.” pic.twitter.com/RVU4yNEJYu
— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) November 24, 2025
The most handsome actor I ever saw , heart of gold – ‘Sholay’ would arguably be the greatest Hindi film of all time … fatherly figure for me and a legend forever … strength to his family to bear the irreparable loss 🙏@iamsunnydeol @BobbyDeol_ pic.twitter.com/WHA2RIkQ6J
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) November 24, 2025
Some actors act,some actors shine
But very few become TIME itself.
From 1948 to 2025 .A journey not just of cinema, but of grace, values, and heart.
A legend who didn’t just rule screens he ruled hearts. @aapkadharam ❤️✨!!! Om Shanti 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/Vmn3j9LoEX— Siddharthh Kaul (@iamsidkaul) November 24, 2025
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