RIP Dharmendra: Sholay to Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani - Remembering legendary actor's iconic films throughout the years
Veteran actor Dharmendra is confirmed to be no more, as per a media statement released earlier on November 24, 2025 - Here's revisiting some of his best movies.
Last Updated: 03.01 PM, Nov 24, 2025
Dharmendra, who was hospitalized and receiving treatment till recently, is no more. As confirmed by a media statement, the legend has passed away at the age of 89. He left behind a legacy of over 300 movies. Right from his iconic dialogues in Sholay to most recent performance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani as well as cameo in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, the He-Man of Bollywood has proven to be a legend in the art of cinema.
Revisiting best movies starring Dharmendra
Sholay
One of the reasons Sholay became a legendary film was because of Dharmendra iconic dialogues and way of presenting them. From screaming at the top of a water tank to modulating his voice just to state out loud, "Basanti, Inn Kutton Ke Saamne Mat Naachna," Dharmendra is an emotion when it comes to Sholay.
Dharmendra was recognized as a charming Bollywood actor during the 60s itself, thanks to his performance in the three films - Bandini, Haqeeqat and Anupama. This was when he first got noticed, and was at his peak performance before Sholay established his name in stone in the 70s.
Phool Aur Patthar (1966)
Phool Aur Patthar is where Dharmendra got his first recognition as a superstar. The legend was recognized as one of the finest talents in Bollywood for the first time ever. Easily, Phool Aur Patthar is one of Dharmendra's best performances, and it was only his beginning in the industry.
Although Seeta Aur Geeta focuses more on Hema Malini, Dharmendra played an equally important role in the movie. This made it one of the landmark films of his career.
Dream Girl is where Dharmendra and Hema Malini's chemistry was in its full bloom. It is why the tag is stuck with Hema Malini so far in her career.
Satyakam (1969)
Hrishikesh Mukherjee's Satyakam was easily one of the most complex characters played by Dharmendra. Despite it, the actor gave a flawless performance, proving his worth as an actor.
Dharmendra worked with his real-life sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol in a fun film Yamla Pagla Deewana. This movie became so loved that it turned into a franchise.
Apne
Even though the Deol family starred together in Yamla Pagla Deewana, they came together for Apne previously and it became their version of K3G/Baghban. The warmth spread from across the screen to those seated to watch the fine performances.
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023)
Dharmendra was last seen in the National Award-winning film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. The actor, who had been facing troubles with old age, delivered a fine performance despite it all. He was also a part of Shahid Kapoor's Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya soon after.
The actor will soon appear in Amitabh Bachchan's son Agastya Nanda's debut film, Ikkis. Dharmendra's audio note in the movie is one of his last memories today.
Truly a legend through-and-through.