Dharmendra no more, Tripura CM mourns
Agartala Nov 24: India mourns the loss of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra. Condolence messages poured in from President of India Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, top political leaders, the film fraternity and fans across the country.
Tributes described him as an icon of Indian cinema whose legacy will remain unmatched.
Dharmendra, aged 89, passed away today after a period of illness, sources close to IANS confirmed. The veteran actor had been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on November 12, and at the time was reported to be recovering at home in a stable condition.
Following his discharge, Dr. Rajiv Sharma of Breach Candy Hospital had informed IANS that the screen legend left the hospital “completely satisfied” after the required treatment. He added that Dharmendra’s family had made all necessary arrangements at home to ensure his comfort and continued care.
Dr. Sharma had further urged the public not to circulate unverified claims and instead pray for the actor’s recovery so that he could celebrate his upcoming 90th birthday with joy. However, earlier on November 10, sources had revealed that Dharmendra was critically ill and placed on life support. Reports also suggested that top specialists had been closely monitoring his health since October 31.
Dharmendra would have turned 90 on December 8.
Professionally, the actor was last seen in the 2024 film *Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya*, alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His next appearance was scheduled in Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming war drama *Ikkis*, featuring Agastya Nanda, Simar Bhatia, Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher, based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
In a career spanning over six decades and more than 300 films, Dharmendra was regarded as one of the most influential and commercially successful stars in the history of Hindi cinema. Known for his striking screen presence and versatility, he set a record for acting in the highest number of hit films in Bollywood. The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
Dharmendra made his cinematic debut in 1960 with *Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere*. He rose to fame in the 1960s with popular films such as *Ayee Milan Ki Bela*, *Aaye Din Bahar Ke*, and *Phool Aur Patthar*. Over the years, he delivered blockbuster performances in classics like *Sholay*, *Chupke Chupke*, *Mera Gaon Mera Desh*, *Dharam Veer*, *Ghulami*, *Pratiggya*, *The Burning Train*, *Jugnu*, *Anupama* and countless others. From the late 1990s onward, he successfully transitioned to impactful character roles in acclaimed films such as *Life in a… Metro*, *Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya*, *Apne*, *Johnny Gaddaar*, *Yamla Pagla Deewana*, and *Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani*.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, paying tribute, said the demise of Dharmendra marked the conclusion of an era in Indian cinema.
He praised the actor’s unmatched charm, versatility and humility, and expressed condolences to his family, friends and millions of admirers.
Chief Minister also expressed grief, saying that Dharmendra’s contribution to Indian cinema and his genuine warmth as a human being would never be forgotten.
He conveyed deep sympathies to the late actor’s family, friends and supporters.
With the passing of Dharmendra, Indian cinema has lost one of its brightest stars, leaving behind a legacy that shall continue to inspire generations. (With inputs from IANS)
