Fans of Bollywood legend Dharmendra have a reason to celebrate this Republic Day. The late superstar has been posthumously awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan one of India’s highest civilian honours. This recognition comes months after the actor passed away leaving behind a legacy that spans more than six decades in Indian cinema. Remembering a legendary career Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol began his acting journey with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960 at the age of 24. In the early years he took on supporting roles in films like Bandini Ayee Milan Ki Bela and Kaajal. It was the 1965 war drama Haqeeqat that made him a household name and marked the beginning of a prolific career. Over the next decades Dharmendra became a leading star with memorable films such as Anupama Aadmi Aur Insaan Mera Gaon Mera Desh Seeta Aur Geeta Sholay Loafer Yaadon Ki Baaraat and Dharam Veer. From the 1960s to the 1980s he dominated the box office with hits like Ankhen Shikar Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke Jeevan Mrityu Raja Jani and more. His final screen appearance was in Agastya Nandas Ikkis released earlier this year showing his passion for cinema till the end. Also read: ‘Dharmendra ji ka beta’ credit for Sunny Deol in Border 2 wins hearts fans say ‘What a beautiful tribute’ About Dharmendras passing Dharmendra passed away on November 24 2025 at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89. Earlier that month he was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital after a health scare and had been recuperating at home. He was cremated on November 25 in Mumbai with a prayer meet organised by his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. Several prominent Bollywood figures including Shah Rukh Khan Salman Khan Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan attended the event while Hema Malini and her daughters held a separate prayer meet at her residence. More about Dharmendra Dharmendra is survived by his two wives. He married Prakash Kaur in 1954 and had four children including Sunny Deol Bobby Deol Ajeeta and Vijeta Deol. In 1980 he married Hema Malini with whom he had two daughters Esha and Ahana Deol. His contribution to Indian cinema both in versatility and charisma continues to inspire generations of actors and fans alike. Also read: Dharmendra insisted on dancing at 3 am despite discomfort in his final film Ikkis choreographer reveals: ‘Why can I not…’
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