GARAM DHARAM, BUT GENTLE HEART: REMEMBERING HINDI CINEMA'S HE-MAN

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the industry's “He-Man,” passed away this morning at bis Mumbai home after a brief illness. He was 89.

- TDG NETWORK

The legendary star - whose rugged charm and humility earned him love across generations - died just days before his 90th birthday, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over six decades and more than 300 films, Dharmendra leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. Tributes have poured in from all quarters; Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed him as “an iconic film personality... admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth” while director Karan Johar eulogized the “massive mega star... a bonafide Legend of indian Cinema... and mostly he was the best human being”.

As fans mourn the loss of one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved figures, we look back at the life and legacy of Dharam Singh Deol, the man who became Dharmendra, a symbol of strength, romance, and enduring appeal.

Born on December 8, 1935, in Punjab's Sahnewal village, Dharmendra grew up the son of a schoolteacher in a simple farming family. As a youngster he was enthralled by movies, cycling miles to catch weekly shows and dreaming of seeing his face on film posters. In 1958, encouraged by his mother, the handsome young man entered a national talent contest organized by Filmfare magazine - and won. This victory brought the aspiring actor to Bombay (now Mumbai), where legendary filmmaker Bimal Roy judged him the winner and opened the doors to the film industry.

Dharmendra made his Hindi film debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, a romantic drama. The film went largely unnoticed, and the newcomer initially found himself playing second leads opposite established stars. His first taste of success came a year later with Shola Aur Shabnam (1961), followed by supporting roles in acclaimed films like Bimal Roy's