Dharmendra Deol, the “He-Man” of Bollywood, passed away on 24 November 2025 at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 89. He had been suffering from a brief illness and was hospitalized earlier in the month before returning home under family care.
Despite his passing, Dharmendra leaves behind a monumental legacy in Indian cinema, having appeared in over 300 films across six decades, effortlessly balancing action, romance, and comedy.
Beyond acting, he also made his mark as a producer with successful films like Betaab, Ghayal, Apne, and Yamla Pagla Deewana, while supporting the careers of his sons Sunny and Bobby Deol.
Today, on his birth anniversary, Bollywood and fans across the world remember his versatility, charisma, and remarkable contribution to the film industry.
Dharmendra launched his own production banner, Vijayta Films, and produced several successful Bollywood films, including blockbuster hits that shaped the careers of his sons Sunny and Bobby Deol.
1. Betaab (1983)
Dharmendra’s first film as a producer under Vijayta Films, Betaab, launched Sunny Deol opposite Amrita Singh. The film became a huge hit and established Sunny as a leading actor.
2. Ghayal (1990)
One of Bollywood’s biggest action dramas, Ghayal was produced by Dharmendra. It won 7 Filmfare Awards and even a National Award. The film cemented Sunny Deol’s identity as an action hero.
3. Barsaat (1995)
This romantic drama produced by Dharmendra marked the debut of Bobby Deol opposite Twinkle Khanna. The movie was a major success and gave Bollywood another star from the Deol family.
4. Ghatak: Lethal (1996)
Another powerful action film starring Sunny Deol, Ghatak was produced by Dharmendra. Known for its gripping storyline and iconic scenes, it became one of the top films of the year.
5. Socha Na Tha (2005)
Dharmendra produced this romantic comedy directed by Imtiaz Ali, marking the debut of Abhay Deol. Though not a huge hit at release, it later became a cult favorite.
6. Apne (2007)
A family drama starring Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, and Bobby Deol together for the first time. Produced under Vijayta Films, the movie was well-received for its emotional storyline.
7. Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011)
A comedy entertainer featuring all three Deols, this film was produced by Dharmendra and became a box-office success.
8. Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013)
The second installment of the franchise, also produced by Dharmendra, focused on comedy and family drama.
9. Ghayal Once Again (2016)
A sequel to Ghayal, Dharmendra co-produced this film, bringing Sunny Deol back in an intense action role.
