Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’ Dharmendra passes away at the age of 89 at his home in Mumbai on Monday. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month due to respiratory problems. Known as Bollywood’s He-Man, Dharmendra leaves behind a rich cinematic legacy spanning over six decades. His final on-screen appearance will be in ‘Ekkis’, which will be released on December 25, 2025.

Dharmendra is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and six children – actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol, as well as daughters Ajita and Vijeta.

Considered one of the biggest stars of Indian cinema, Dharmendra began his career with the 1960 film ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere’. The actor, who proved his versatility in serious and comic roles alike, was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, in 2012. In a career spanning six decades, he starred in numerous hit films, including Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Pratigya, Chupke Chupke, Naukar Biwi Ka, Phool Aur Patthar, Satyakam, Aayi Milan Ki Bela, Dil Ne Phir Yaad Kiya, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Aankhen, Aaya Sawan Jhum Ke, Jeevan Mrityu, Jugnu, Charas, Dharam Veer, Azaad, Ghazab, Loha, Hukumat, and Apne.

Besides his professional life, his personal life has also been in the spotlight. Let’s take a look at his family.

The Deol family has maintained its place in the Hindi film industry, thanks to Dharmendra’s stellar roles and those of his sons Bobby and Sunny Deol, who gave it a name for a time. His wife, Hema Malini, is known as Bollywood’s “Dream Girl.” Furthermore, his daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, have also carved a niche for themselves in Bollywood.

A Career That Gave Hindi Cinema Its Recognition
Dharmendra, fondly known as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” leaves behind a filmography that impacted the pinnacle of Indian cinema. He played everything from a formidable action hero to a sensitive romantic lead in over 300 films spanning six decades.

From his role as Shakti Singh in the 1966 film Phool Aur Patthar, to his famous role as Veeru in the cult-classic film Sholay, to the romantic comedy drama Chupke Chupke, his acting combined power and charm. His on-screen presence and deep voice made him a household name.

A Film Family’s Legacy
Beyond the screen, Dharmendra was the leader of one of Bollywood’s most renowned families. He had six children, including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol. He was first married to Prakash Kaur and then to actress Hema Malini. His legacy is carried forward by the Deol family to this day, with each generation contributing something unique to Indian cinema. Dharmendra, known for his kindness and simplicity, maintained a strong connection to his Punjabi heritage despite having a profound impact on generations of film lovers.