The world of cinema bids farewell to one of its most enduring and beloved stars — Dharmendra, who passed away on 24 November 2025, at the age of 89. For more than six decades, Dharmendra shaped, influenced, and elevated Indian film history with a presence that remains incomparable.
For Film Gurukul, GOLN — an academy dedicated to archiving, analysing, and celebrating cinematic heritage — Dharmendra’s passing is not merely the loss of a performer, but the departure of a pillar of Indian film culture.
A Cinematic Journey that Redefined Heroism
Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol, he entered the industry with the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. What followed was a career that would fundamentally alter the definition of stardom in Indian cinema.
Dharmendra was the first major star to combine:
- classical heroism
- rugged masculinity
- emotional vulnerability
- effortless romantic charm
No actor before him embodied all these traits simultaneously — and very few after him managed to replicate the magic.
Among his most influential films:
- Phool Aur Patthar (1966) — a turning point in mainstream masculinity
- Satyakam (1969) — regarded as one of Indian cinema’s finest moral dramas
- Sholay (1975) — the landmark film that cemented his status as a legend
His performances flowed as naturally as conversation — understated, instinctive, and deeply human.
Outlasting Every Wave of Change
Few actors survive the seismic shifts of the film industry. Dharmendra not only survived — he thrived.
During the height of Rajesh Khanna’s meteoric stardom, Dharmendra remained unaffected, continuing to deliver blockbusters. In the Amitabh Bachchan era, too, his star power stayed undiminished.
Even the 1990s and 2000s, which saw a transformation in cinematic language, welcomed him with open arms. His roles in Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998), Life in a… Metro (2007), and Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) introduced him to a new generation.
His final years in cinema — including appearances in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) — proved his versatility was ageless.
A Beloved Human Being Behind the Legend
Though loved for his screen aura, Dharmendra was admired even more for his personality:
- humble despite his fame
- soft-spoken and generous
- warm towards colleagues
- deeply respectful of the craft
He received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997, honouring a contribution unmatched in its breadth and emotional resonance.
His family life, like his films, was layered and eventful. He married Prakash Kaur in 1954 and fathered four children, including actors Sunny and Bobby Deol. Later, he married Hema Malini in 1980, and together they had two daughters, Esha and Ahana.
The Final Goodbye
Dharmendra’s health began to decline from 10 November 2025. Though early rumours of his passing were incorrect, the sad news was confirmed later in the month.
Karan Johar, who worked with him recently, wrote:
“It is the departure of a megastar — a defining presence in the history of Indian cinema.
A legend, a gentleman, and a soul filled with warmth and kindness.”
At his funeral, the presence of icons such as Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, and others reflected the reverence he commanded.
Kajol noted:
“The original gentleman has gone. The world is poorer today.”
Ajay Devgn added:
“His warmth and generosity inspired generations.”
A Legacy That Cinema Will Remember Forever
For students of cinema, Dharmendra’s work represents a rare synthesis:
- classical acting
- commercial sensibility
- timeless screen charisma
- emotional honesty
His films belong not only to India but to the entire South Asian film heritage.
His posthumous film, Ikkis, set for release in December 2025, will be his final offering — a curtain call befitting a legend.
A Tribute from Film Gurukul, GOLN
On behalf of Film Gurukul, GOLN, we honour Dharmendra —
a titan of the silver screen, a cornerstone of Indian cinematic identity,
and an artist whose legacy transcends time.
His journey will be studied, taught, and celebrated in the classrooms, archives, and discussions of Film Gurukul for generations to come.
“Cinema lights may dim, but legends like Dharmendra continue to shine —
not on the screen, but in the collective memory of the art form.”
Rest in peace, Dharam Ji.
Indian cinema will never see another like you.