MUMBAI: Legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89. According to Indian media, he breathed his last at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. Outside his residence, numerous Bollywood actors and their families were seen arriving in white attire to pay their respects.
Renowned filmmaker Karan Johar confirmed Dharmendra’s death on Instagram and paid tribute to the iconic actor.
Reports indicate that Dharmendra had been hospitalized two weeks earlier due to breathing difficulties, and he had also undergone eye surgery in April of this year.
Dharmendra’s final film, “Akis”, which is scheduled to release on December 25, showcases his acting prowess for the last time.
The actor began his career in 1960 with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and was honored with India’s Padma Bhushan in 2012, the country’s third-highest civilian award. Over his six-decade career, he starred in award-winning films such as Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baraat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Naukar Biwi Ka, Phool Aur Patthar, and Phool Aur Patli.
Born as Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in a village in Ludhiana, Punjab, he married Prakash Kaur at the age of 19 in 1954 before entering the film industry, and later married actress Hema Malini.
Even at 89, Dharmendra remained active on social media, frequently sharing videos promoting healthy living. Many posts showed him driving tractors, tending to his farm, and offering his fans lessons in simple living and agriculture.