The BRICS TimesThe original ‘He Man’ of India passes away at his Juhu residence after a recent health scare.
Actor Dharmendra passes away
Legendary actor Dharmendra has died at the age of 89. He was one of Indian cinema’s most loved stars. The actor passed away on Monday morning at his Juhu home. He was recovering from a major health issue earlier this month. His cremation took place at Pawan Hans crematorium. His family members were present during the last rites.
Family and survivors
The veteran actor leaves behind a large family. He is survived by his two wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini. He also leaves behind six children. This includes famous actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, and Esha Deol.
Dharmendra’s early career
Dharmendra was born in a Ludhiana village in 1935. He started his film journey in 1960. His first film was the romantic drama Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He became a romantic hero in the 60s. He often played supporting roles or worked with big female stars. These films included Bandini, Ayee Milan Ki Bela, and Khamoshi. He got fame with Chetan Anand’s 1965 war movie Haqeeqat. However, Phool Aur Patthar made him a top star the next year.
Rise to superstardom
He worked in Bollywood’s biggest hits over the next decade. These included Mera Gaon Mera Desh and Seeta Aur Geeta. He also starred in Chupke Chupke, Sholay, and Yaadon Ki Baraat. He shifted to action films in the 80s. He often led large casts or acted in crime thrillers. He found great success in this genre. Fans soon called him the ‘He Man of India’.
Later work and politics
Dharmendra successfully became a character actor later in life. He played supporting roles in hits like Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya. He also acted in Johnny Gaddaar and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. He worked with his sons in Yamla Pagla Deewana and Apne. His final movie, Ikkis, is set to release next month.
Personal life details
Dharmendra married Prakash Kaur at the age of 19. He had four children with her. This includes Sunny and Bobby Deol. They followed him into Bollywood. He married his co-star Hema Malini in 1980. They have two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol. He received the Padma Bhushan award. He was also elected to the Lok Sabha from Bikaner in 2004. He served on a Bharatiya Janata Party ticket for one term.
