Patna: Bollywood came together in grief on Monday as Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most enduring and beloved stars, was cremated at the Vile Parle crematorium in Mumbai. The actor, affectionately known as the industry’s “He-Man”, died at the age of 89, leaving behind a cinematic legacy spanning nearly seven decades.
Dharmendra had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he remained under intensive medical supervision. Sources close to his family confirmed that the actor had been on life support since 10 November, following a period of deteriorating health.
A city stands still as celebrities arrive
Through the afternoon, the crematorium witnessed a steady arrival of Bollywood’s biggest names. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh were among the first to be seen leaving after paying their respects. Cameras also captured a deeply emotional Hema Malini, who exited with folded hands, accompanied by her daughter Esha Deol.
Superstars Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, and veteran writer Salim Khan also made their way to the cremation ground, many arriving under tight security as crowds gathered outside.
Nationwide tributes pour in
Tributes flowed in from across India as political leaders mourned the loss of a cultural icon.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described Dharmendra’s death as an “irreparable loss to the world of Indian art,” praising his unmatched contribution to cinema.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh said the actor had brought “charm and honesty” to every role he portrayed, leaving behind characters that would “always be remembered.”
Union home minister Amit Shah called Dharmendra a rare actor whose performances touched “every generation,” adding that he carved an extraordinary place in cinema despite coming from a modest background.
President Droupadi Murmu wrote that the actor’s death was “a great loss to Indian cinema,” noting that his long career continued to inspire new generations of performers.
Prime minister Narendra Modi said the actor’s passing marked the end of an era, describing him as a “remarkable personality whose versatility and warmth won millions of hearts.”
A legacy etched in Indian cinema
Known for his effortless charm, physicality and versatility, Dharmendra starred in some of Hindi cinema’s most memorable films—from Sholay and Satyakam to Anupama and Phool Aur Patthar. His influence shaped generations of actors, and his on-screen collaborations with Hema Malini remain iconic to this day.
