Bollywood is in deep mourning as veteran superstar Dharmendra passed away today at his Juhu residence at the age of 89. Just weeks away from his 90th birthday, the beloved “He-Man of Bollywood” left for his heavenly abode, creating a void that fans and colleagues say can never be filled.
As the news broke, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry. Akshay Kumar, among the first to reach the Pawan Hans Crematorium for the funeral, shared an emotional message. Remembering his childhood idol, he wrote, “Growing up, Dharmendra ji was the hero every boy wanted to be… our industry’s original He-Man. Thank you for inspiring generations. You’ll live on through your films and the love you spread. Om Shanti.”
Filmmaker Karan Johar offered a heartfelt and deeply nostalgic tribute, calling Dharmendra’s death “the end of an era.” In a moving note, he described the actor as an “incredibly handsome, enigmatic megastar” who defined mainstream Hindi cinema. More than his stardom, Karan highlighted his gentle personality, his warmth, blessings and positivity that touched everyone who knew him. “There is a gaping hole in our industry,” he wrote, adding that no one can ever take Dharamji’s place.
As colleagues remember him, Dharmendra’s legacy continues through decades of iconic films, unforgettable characters and the love he earned both on and off screen. His passing marks a solemn moment for Indian cinema, but his influence remains eternal.
