(Image source from: Instagram.com/aapkadharam)
Veteran actor Dharmendra passed away on Monday morning at his home in Mumbai following a short illness. He was 89 years old. Dharmendra's death came just days before he would have turned 90 on December 8, 2025. His funeral took place at the Pawan Hans crematorium. Dharmendra was taken to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on October 31 after he had trouble breathing. Many celebrities, including his second wife Hema Malini, and co-stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, along with other actors such as Sanjay Dutt and Aamir Khan, attended his cremation surrounded by heavy security. Political figures from different parties, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, expressed their condolences for the actor on social media.
Sriram Raghavan's eagerly awaited war film Ikkis will showcase Dharmendra's final role in cinema. The Hindi movie features Amitabh Bachchan's grandson, Agastya Nanda, and is scheduled to premiere on December 25, 2025.
This year, Dharmendra's posts on X were less about his films' glamour or nostalgia, but more focused on his family. The legendary actor not only left behind a remarkable legacy but also one of the most respected and wide-ranging film families in Bollywood. Known as the "He-Man" of Hindi cinema, his family includes many generations of actors, filmmakers, and other industry professionals who continue to uphold his lasting legacy. India's Vice President, CP Radhakrishnan, remarked that Dharmendra was a beloved symbol for countless fans who contributed to Indian cinema. He stated on X, "The passing of former Member of Parliament and veteran actor Shri Dharmendra Ji is a huge loss for Indian cinema. A beloved icon for many, he enriched Indian cinema with his incredible performances and unwavering commitment to his craft. As one of the most respected personalities in our film industry, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to motivate future artists. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and countless admirers. Om Shanti."
Actor Sanjay Dutt remembers Dharmendra as an actor who "not just worked, but lived in your heart." Dharmendra will be seen for the last time in Ikkis, which will be released on Christmas, December 25, 2025. In this film, Dharmendra plays ML Khetarpal, while Agastya Nanda portrays Arun Khetarpal, showcasing the story of India's youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra and his sacrifice during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Rest in peace, Dharmendra ji.
