Bollywood has lost one of its most enduring and iconic stars. Dharmendra, the hugely popular actor, producer and former Member of Parliament, passed away on 24 November 2025 at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 89. His death marks the end of a monumental career that shaped Indian popular cinema for more than six decades.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, stating,
“The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played.”
The actor had not been well recently and was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai before passing away peacefully just weeks before his 90th birthday.
A Storied Cinematic Career
Born on 8 December 1935 in Nasrali, Punjab, Dharmendra began his Bollywood journey with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960. Over a remarkable career, he appeared in more than 250 films spanning romantic dramas, comedies and action blockbusters, becoming one of the most respected figures in Indian cinema.
In the 1980s, Dharmendra starred in a series of successful action films that earned him the legendary nickname “He-Man”. His most iconic role remains the lovable rogue Veeru in the 1975 classic Sholay, a performance that continues to be celebrated across generations.
Beyond acting, he ventured into film production and supported the careers of his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, further strengthening the Deol family’s presence in Bollywood. He also served as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009 and was honoured with one of India’s highest civilian awards, the Padma Bhushan, in 2012.
His final film appearance will be in Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis (Twenty-one), scheduled for release next month, making it a poignant final chapter in his legendary cinematic journey.
His Passing and Final Rites
Dharmendra had been hospitalised earlier in November at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for respiratory issues and had been recovering at home. He passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday. His last rites were held at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai, in the presence of his family and members of the Bollywood fraternity.
Why Dharmendra’s Legacy Endures
Dharmendra’s influence on Indian cinema remains unmatched due to his versatility and longevity. Few actors have transitioned so seamlessly from romantic hero to action superstar and eventually to powerful character roles across more than sixty years.
His dialogues, screen presence and timeless films continue to be a part of India’s cultural memory and are still being discovered by newer generations. Many contemporary actors cite him as a source of inspiration for his humility, dedication and powerful on-screen charisma.
Relevance for Indian Expatriates in Qatar and Globally
For Indians living in Qatar and across the Gulf, Dharmendra’s passing holds deep emotional significance. His films are an integral part of the shared cultural heritage of the Indian diaspora, often watched during family gatherings and streamed in homes abroad.
His death has become a moment for reflection on how cinema preserves identity across borders and generations. Cultural organisations, film clubs and community groups in Qatar are likely to honour his memory through film screenings, tribute events and social media commemorations.
His legacy highlights the importance of preserving classic Indian cinema for younger generations raised outside India, ensuring that the golden age of Bollywood continues to live on through storytelling and remembrance.
A Timeless Legacy
Dharmendra’s passing is more than the death of a legendary actor. It is the farewell to a golden era of Indian cinema whose impact transcended borders. From Mumbai to Qatar and beyond, his films continue to inspire, entertain and connect generations.
As long as his performances live on through screens and memories, Dharmendra will remain immortal in the hearts of Bollywood lovers worldwide.
