Legendary Bollywood star Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 on November 24, 2025. The actor breathed his last in Mumbai after reportedly being unwell for over a month. He had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital and was discharged recently.
His final rites took place at the Pawan Hans cremation ground in the presence of his family. But before his death, Dharmendra fulfilled a dream he often spoke about—continuing to work until the very end.
Dharmendra Death
The legendary veteran actor Dharmendra Singh Deol, the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, has passed away at the age of 89 on 24th November 2025. His last rites has taken place at the Vile Parle Crematorium in Mumbai for the last rites.
The veteran actor was put on life support shortly after he returned from Breach Candy Hospital, where he was getting treatment for his heart problems.
His health concerns rose not only among fans but also within the film industry, as there were several reports about his health deteriorating. His problems with the heart became more severe despite the medical treatments and care, which eventually led to his demise.
Dharmendra Last Wish
Dharmendra once shared with HT how he wished his acting journey to end. When asked if he was nearing the end of his career, he said, “As an actor, I believe in dying with my boots on. And in that respect, ‘the end’ is certainly nowhere near as far as I can tell you.”
He also said that his slower pace of work back then was intentional. “However, I don’t grudge or envy anybody anything. By the grace of God, I have enough films even today, and some of the top producers and banners never think twice about repeating me,” he added.
Dharmendra stressed that he had simply been outside the spotlight because magazines focused on younger stars, not because he had stepped away. “I’m definitely not out… but most of the new films you’ve mentioned have been in a state of production for some time,” he told HT.
Dharmendra Last Movie: Ikkis Movie Release
The makers of Ikkis unveiled Dharmendra’s look from the film just hours before the news of his death became public. The war biopic is scheduled to hit theatres on December 25, 2025. The release has now gained emotional significance, as it marks Dharmendra’s final appearance on the big screen.
Dharmendra Last Movie: Ikkis Movie Cast
Ikkis stars Agastya Nanda in the lead role, directed by Sriram Raghavan. The film is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. Dharmendra plays the role of his father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal. Actor Jaideep Ahlawat is also part of the cast in a key role.
Dharmendra Final Wish Comes True With Ikkis
Remarkably, Dharmendra’s wish to keep working was fulfilled just hours before his death became public. The makers of Ikkis revealed his look from the film the same day.
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis stars Agastya Nanda and is based on the life of Param Vir Chakra awardee Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Dharmendra plays Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, father of the young war hero. Actor Jaideep Ahlawat also plays a key role.
The film is scheduled to release in theatres on December 25 this year. This project now stands as Dharmendra’s final big-screen appearance—one that perfectly reflects his lifelong commitment to cinema.
Dharmendra’s Lasting Legacy
Soon after the news broke, tributes poured in from fans, actors, filmmakers, and political leaders. Dharmendra, often called the “He-Man” of Bollywood, shaped the golden era of Hindi cinema with iconic films such as Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Shikar, Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, Jeevan Mrityu, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Seeta Aur Geeta, and the unforgettable Sholay. His career spanned over six decades, making him one of India’s most loved and respected actors.
Dharmendra Final Act Becomes a Tribute
Dharmendra’s passing has added emotional weight to Ikkis. Industry experts say the film may now be seen not just as a war biopic, but also as a symbolic farewell from a superstar who stayed true to his belief of “dying with his boots on.”
His final performance now stands as a rare moment where an artist’s life philosophy aligns perfectly with his final work—turning Ikkis into an unexpected tribute to Dharmendra himself.
