Bollywood Legend Dharmendra Passes Away at 89
The Indian film industry lost one of its most beloved icons on Monday, November 24, 2025, when legendary actor Dharmendra passed away in Mumbai due to age-related concerns. The veteran star was just weeks away from celebrating his 90th birthday.
The actor had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in October for routine medical tests and was discharged on November 12, 2025, after spending nearly 10 days under medical supervision. He had been recovering at home before his peaceful passing.
Cricket Fraternity Pays Emotional Tributes
The news of Dharmendra's demise prompted an outpouring of grief from across the nation, with the Indian sports community leading the tributes. Prominent cricketers took to social media platform X to express their condolences and share personal memories of the iconic actor.
Yuvraj Singh captured the sentiment of millions when he wrote: "Every home had a favourite Dharmendra film. He was a part of our growing up and of Indian cinema's finest years. He brought strength, charm and honesty to every role, and carried Punjab's warmth wherever he went." The former all-rounder added that behind the fame was "a humble, grounded and deeply human soul" whose legacy would live on in millions of hearts.
Harbhajan Singh described Dharmendra as "a timeless icon whose grace, strength, and unparalleled charm have left an everlasting mark on Indian cinema." The spin legend highlighted how the actor's powerful performances and warmth both on and off screen had "touched countless hearts and inspired generations."
Remembering the 'He-Man of Bollywood'
Suresh Raina paid homage to what Dharmendra represented to an entire generation, calling him "not just a superstar—he was emotion, charm, and the soul of an entire generation of cinema." The former cricketer bid farewell to the "He-Man of Bollywood" with prayers for his soul to rest in peace.
Shikhar Dhawan offered a poignant tribute, noting that the actor "stood tall, not just in stature, but in spirit." The opening batsman thanked Dharmendra for demonstrating that "strength can be kind."
Other cricket personalities including Virender Sehwag, Munaf Patel, and Navjot Singh Sidhu joined in mourning the loss. Sidhu particularly remembered Dharmendra as "the most handsome actor I ever saw" with "a heart of gold," while Sehwag described him as an era in himself—"a star in simplicity, He-Man in strength, and gold at heart."
Even IPL franchises Lucknow Super Giants and Rajasthan Royals joined the chorus of tributes, affirming that the legendary actor would remain "forever in our hearts" and that his legacy would continue to live on through his extensive filmography.
The overwhelming response from the cricket community underscores how Dharmendra's influence transcended cinema and became an integral part of India's cultural fabric, touching lives across different professions and generations.
