Bollywood icon Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema and leaving behind a rich legacy through his expansive Deol lineage.
MUMBAI – Bollywood legend Dharmendra has passed away at the age of 89, a loss that resonates deeply within the Indian film industry. He died on November 24 after a period of recovery at home following his admission to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai. His passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues alike, with notable tributes, including an obituary published by The New York Times, highlighting his significant impact on cinema and audiences in India.
Dharmendra’s death signifies the conclusion of a remarkable era in Bollywood, where he dedicated over six decades to building one of the industry’s most enduring legacies. He leaves behind a multi-generational family that is intricately woven into the fabric of Indian cinema, alongside an estimated personal net worth ranging between Rs 335 crore and Rs 450 crore, according to NDTV.
Born in Nasrali village, located in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, Dharmendra was the son of schoolteacher Kewal Krishan Singh Deol and Satwant Kaur. His journey into the film industry began in the late 1950s when Filmfare magazine, in collaboration with Bimal Roy Productions, held a nationwide talent contest to discover new faces for Hindi cinema. Dharmendra emerged as the winner in 1958, recognized for his striking looks and natural charm, which opened the door to his illustrious career.
He quickly gained fame for his emotional depth and effortless screen presence, showcasing remarkable versatility across genres. Dharmendra starred in numerous iconic films, including ‘Phool Aur Patthar,’ which established him as a leading man, and ‘Sholay,’ where his portrayal of the lovable and witty Veeru became legendary. His impeccable comic timing was evident in ‘Chupke Chupke,’ while action-packed dramas like ‘Yaadon Ki Baaraat’ solidified his status as the quintessential Bollywood hero.
Before embarking on his film career, Dharmendra married Prakash Kaur in 1954, and the couple raised four children together. Their eldest son, Sunny Deol, has made a name for himself as an actor, filmmaker, and politician. Sunny is married to Pooja Deol, and they have two sons, Karan and Rajveer. Karan, who is married to Drisha Acharya, has already entered the film industry alongside his brother Rajveer.
Dharmendra’s younger son, Bobby Deol, also carved out a successful career in films and is married to interior designer Tanya Ahuja. They have two sons, Aryaman and Dharam, while their daughters, Vijayta and Ajeeta, have chosen paths outside the film industry. Vijayta lives a private life with her husband Vivek Gill and their children, Prerna and Sahil, while Ajeeta resides in California with her husband, Dr. Kiran Chaudhri, and their daughters, Dr. Nikita Mina and Dr. Prianka Chaudhri.
In 1980, Dharmendra married ‘Dream Girl’ Hema Malini, a superstar of her time who is now a BJP MP, film producer, and dancer. Their relationship garnered significant public attention, particularly because Dharmendra remained legally married to Prakash Kaur. Despite the scrutiny, their marriage endured, becoming somewhat of a norm in an industry where second marriages have become more common.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini have two daughters. Esha Deol, an actress, is married to businessman Bharat Takhtani, and they share two daughters, Radhya and Miraya. Ahana Deol, an Odissi dancer and entrepreneur, is married to Vaibhav Vohra, and they have twin daughters, Astraia and Adea, along with a son, Darien.
Although Hema Malini and her daughters have long resided separately in Mumbai, Dharmendra maintained cordial relationships and participated in significant family events across both households. He spent his later years at his farmhouse in Khandala, having relocated there due to the worsening pollution levels in Mumbai.
The broader Deol family includes Dharmendra’s younger brother, the late Ajit Singh Deol, who was also an actor and producer. His son, actor Abhay Deol, has remained close to his cousins Sunny and Bobby, further enriching the Deol legacy in the film industry.
Dharmendra’s financial legacy reflects his disciplined and successful career. Estimates suggest that his personal wealth ranges between Rs 335 crore and Rs 450 crore. When combined with the earnings and assets of the broader Deol family, their collective fortune is believed to exceed Rs 1,000 crore, establishing them as one of Indian cinema’s most significant dynastic portfolios.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Dharmendra was cherished for his humility and charisma, making him a beloved figure both on and off the screen. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, recognizing his contributions to the arts.
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