Bollywood ‘He-Man’ Dharmendra dies at 89
The death of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra Deol on Monday prompted an outpouring of tributes and condolences across India. He was 89.
Dharmendra, who was known to his legion of fans by his first name only, had recently been treated in hospital.
Indian media say he was born in Punjab state in the country’s northwest in 1935 and acted in his first film in 1960. He would go on to star in more than 300 films over more than six decades, earning the moniker of Bollywood’s “He-Man” along the way.
Dharmendra was famous for his natural charm and versatility, a quality that made him equally at ease in action films and romance stories.
One of his most popular roles was a lovable petty criminal in the 1975 classic “Sholay” — widely regarded as one of India’s greatest films.
Dharmendra also had a career in politics, serving as a lawmaker in the Indian parliament from 2004 to 2009.
Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan were among many who attended a crematorium in Mumbai to pay their respects.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent his condolences. He wrote that Dharmendra was “an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played.”