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Legendary Bollywood 'He-Man' Dharmendra Passes Away at 89

Source: Bollywood's 'He-Man' Dharmendra dies aged 89 (2025-11-24)

Dharmendra, the iconic Bollywood star known as the 'He-Man,' has died at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that shaped Indian cinema for over six decades. Born Dharam Singh Deol in Punjab on December 8, 1935, Dharmendra's journey from a humble villager to a cinematic legend is a testament to his resilience and talent. Moving to Mumbai in 1958 after winning a talent competition, he quickly rose to fame with his debut in 1960's "Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere." His breakthrough came with "Phool Aur Patthar" in 1966, where he became the first Hindi actor to bare his chest on screen, revolutionizing the portrayal of masculinity and sexuality in Indian films. Over his illustrious career, Dharmendra starred alongside legendary actresses like Nutan, Meena Kumari, and Sharmila Tagore, but his most notable partnership was with Hema Malini, with whom he shared both onscreen chemistry and a real-life romance culminating in their 1980 marriage. Beyond acting, Dharmendra served as a Member of Parliament, earning one of India's highest civilian honors, the Padma Bhushan, in 2014. His influence extended beyond cinema into social and political spheres, advocating for rural development and youth empowerment. Recent facts highlight his enduring legacy: Dharmendra was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2019 for lifetime contribution to Indian cinema, he was actively involved in philanthropic work supporting farmers and rural communities, and his family continues to carry forward his cinematic legacy through their own careers. His death marks the end of an era, but his impact remains deeply embedded in Bollywood's history. As the industry mourns, fans and peers remember him not only as a 'He-Man' but as a symbol of strength, charisma, and heartfelt dedication to his craft and country. Dharmendra's life story continues to inspire aspiring actors and fans worldwide, cementing his status as a true legend of Indian cinema.

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