Dharmendra, India’s legendary superstar, is celebrated for his remarkable journey from humble rural beginnings to becoming Bollywood’s iconic “He-Man.” His story blends inspiring personal resolve, a record-shattering film career, and a vibrant family legacy—making him a beloved figure across generations.
Summary of Dharmendra:
| Aspect | Summary |
|---|---|
| Name | Dharmendra Kumar |
| Born | December 8, 1935, Nasrali, Punjab, India |
| Early Life | Raised in Punjab, son of a school headmaster, started acting after winning a contest |
| Film Career | Bollywood icon with over 300 films, notable hits include Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and more |
| Awards | Padma Bhushan (2012), Filmfare Lifetime Achievement (1997) |
| Family | Two wives, six children including actors Sunny, Bobby, Esha Deol |
| Nickname | Bollywood’s “He-Man” |
| Lifestyle | Grounded personality, maintains Punjabi roots, active even in late career |
| Legacy | Bollywood dynasty, inspiration for generations |
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
On December 8, 1935, Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol was born into a Punjabi Jat family in Nasrali, Punjab, India. He was raised in Sahnewal and attended Government Senior Secondary School in Lalton Kalan, where his father served as headmaster. Long before he started working in movies, he graduated in 1952.
The Path to Film Stardom
Dharmendra made his debut in Mumbai in 1960 with “Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere” after winning a national talent competition organized by Filmfare magazine. After going undetected at first, he became well-known because to singles like “Shola Aur Shabnam” (1961), “Bandini” (1963), and “Phool Aur Patthar” (1966), which was his first big hit. He became known as “He-Man” of Bollywood due to his tough demeanor.
Milestones and Iconic Films
Across six decades, Dharmendra appeared in over 300 movies, often breaking box office records:
- Starred in eight hits in 1973 and set a record with nine successes in 1987 alone.
- Known for classics like “Seeta Aur Geeta,” “Sholay,” “Yaadon Ki Baaraat,” “Dharam Veer,” “Chupke Chupke,” and “The Burning Train”.
- Honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2012 and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 for his contribution to Indian cinema.
- In later years, made memorable appearances in movies like “Apne,” “Yamla Pagla Deewana,” and “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani”.
Family, Relationships, and Legacy
Dharmendra’s personal life is as dramatic as his film career:
- First married Prakash Kaur in 1954, fathering four children: Sunny and Bobby Deol (both leading actors), and two daughters, Vijeta and Ajeeta Deol.
- His marriage to actress Hema Malini led to two more daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, both active in the film industry.
- With two wives, six children, and 13 grandchildren, the Deol family has become a Bollywood dynasty, admired for their unity and lasting contributions to Indian cinema.
Lifestyle and Influence
Dharmendra has been praised for his kind, grounded demeanor despite his extraordinary fame. He maintained a farmhouse in Lonavala, led a simple life, and maintained strong links to his Punjabi heritage. He continued to be physically robust, energetic, and actively involved in industry events and family gatherings well into his late 80s.
Bollywood Legend Dharmendra Passes Away at 89
Veteran actor Dharmendra Kumar was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on November 10, 2025, due to respiratory difficulties. Despite medical efforts, he passed away on the morning of November 11, 2025.
A Stellar Career and Legacy
Known as the “He-Man” of Bollywood, Dharmendra graced Indian cinema for over six decades, starring in more than 300 films. His iconic roles in classics like Sholay and Seeta Aur Geeta have left a lasting impact on generations of fans.
Tributes and Mourning
Fans, celebrities, and politicians all expressed their sympathies for his passing. While expressing his sadness, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh praised Dharmendra’s versatility as an actor and his priceless contribution to Indian film.
Survived By
Renowned actors Sunny Deol and Esha Deol are among the six children of Dharmendra, who is survived by his wife, Hema Malini. His family and iconic movies carry on his legacy.
