Dharmendra, Bollywood's 'He Man', Dies at Age 89
Bollywood's film industry has lost one of its most iconic stars with the passing of Dharmendra at the age of 89. Born Dharam Singh Deol, Dharmendra rose to fame in the 1960s and went on to become a legendary figure in Indian cinema, starring in over 300 films throughout his six-decade-long career.
Often referred to as Bollywood's 'He-Man', Dharmendra was known for his rugged charm, muscular physique, and versatility in roles that spanned genres from comedy and action to emotional dramas. His iconic on-screen presence earned him the admiration of millions, particularly with his memorable performances in films like 1975's Sholay, where he starred alongside Amitabh Bachchan as two lovable small-time criminals.
Dharmendra came from a humble background, born in a rural village in Punjab and going on to win a film talent contest that brought him to the big screen. His striking good looks quickly made him the go-to romantic hero of Bollywood, earning him devoted fans who idolized him for his charming performances in films like Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.
In addition to his acting career, Dharmendra ventured into politics, serving as an MP for the ruling Bharatiya Janata party from 2004 to 2009. He continued to act throughout his term and remained a prominent figure in Indian cinema until the end.
Dharmendra's personal life was also steeped in glamour and drama, with his marriage to actress Hema Malini being one of the most iconic celebrity unions in Bollywood history. The couple had two daughters together, both of whom have followed in their father's footsteps as Bollywood stars.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dharmendra received numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan award in 2012 for his contributions to Indian cinema. Even in his late 80s, he continued to act, with his final feature Ikkis set to be released in cinemas next month.
The passing of Dharmendra marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.
Bollywood's film industry has lost one of its most iconic stars with the passing of Dharmendra at the age of 89. Born Dharam Singh Deol, Dharmendra rose to fame in the 1960s and went on to become a legendary figure in Indian cinema, starring in over 300 films throughout his six-decade-long career.
Often referred to as Bollywood's 'He-Man', Dharmendra was known for his rugged charm, muscular physique, and versatility in roles that spanned genres from comedy and action to emotional dramas. His iconic on-screen presence earned him the admiration of millions, particularly with his memorable performances in films like 1975's Sholay, where he starred alongside Amitabh Bachchan as two lovable small-time criminals.
Dharmendra came from a humble background, born in a rural village in Punjab and going on to win a film talent contest that brought him to the big screen. His striking good looks quickly made him the go-to romantic hero of Bollywood, earning him devoted fans who idolized him for his charming performances in films like Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.
In addition to his acting career, Dharmendra ventured into politics, serving as an MP for the ruling Bharatiya Janata party from 2004 to 2009. He continued to act throughout his term and remained a prominent figure in Indian cinema until the end.
Dharmendra's personal life was also steeped in glamour and drama, with his marriage to actress Hema Malini being one of the most iconic celebrity unions in Bollywood history. The couple had two daughters together, both of whom have followed in their father's footsteps as Bollywood stars.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dharmendra received numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan award in 2012 for his contributions to Indian cinema. Even in his late 80s, he continued to act, with his final feature Ikkis set to be released in cinemas next month.
The passing of Dharmendra marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.