New Delhi: Veteran Hindi film actor Dharmendra passed away at his Mumbai residence on Monday (November 24). He was 89. His last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium.

Dharmendra died just days before his 90th birthday, which was to be celebrated on December 8. The actor had been in and out of Breach Candy Hospital in south Mumbai over the past several days. He was shifted to his residence from the hospital on November 12.

Dharmendra’s funeral was attended by several prominent figures from the film industry, including Saira Banu, Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Salim Khan, Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and Abhishek Bachchan, who arrived to pay their final respects.

Known as the 'He Man' of Hindi cinema, Dharmendra delivered unforgettable performances in films such as Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, Jugnu, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Sholay, Pratiggya, Charas, Dharam Veer and numerous others. In 2023, he appeared in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

Sriram Raghavan's war drama Ikkis will mark Dharmendra's final appearance on the big screen. The Hindi film, featuring Jaideep Ahlawat and Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, is scheduled for release on December 25.

Dharmendra briefly entered politics in 2004 and was fielded by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from the Bikaner Lok Sabha seat in Rajasthan, where he defeated Congress candidate Rameshwar Lal Dudi by nearly 60,000 votes.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their condolences to his family.

"The demise of veteran actor and former Member of Parliament Shri Dharmendra Ji is a great loss to Indian cinema. One of the most popular actors, he delivered numerous memorable performances during his decades-long illustrious career. As a towering figure of Indian cinema, he leaves behind a legacy which will continue to inspire young generations of artists. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers," Murmu wrote on X.

Similarly, the prime minister noted the actor's demise is "end of an era in Indian cinema". "He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti," Modi wrote.

Leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said, "The news of the demise of the great actor Dharmendra ji is extremely heartbreaking and an irreparable loss for the Indian art world. His unparalleled contribution to cinema over nearly seven decades will always be remembered with respect and love."

Earlier in the day, filmmaker Johar wrote on Instagram that Dharmendra was "the best human being" who was "loved by everyone in our industry".

"He only had immense love and positivity for everyone … his blessings, his hug and his incredible warmth will be missed more than words can describe …. Today there is a gaping hole in our industry … a space that can never be filled by anyone … there will always be the one and only DHARAMJI… we love you kind Sir…. We will miss you so much…. The heavens are blessed today…. It will always be my blessing to have worked with you," Johar mentioned.

Dharmendra is survived by his wives Prakash Kaur, Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha and Ahana.

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