The Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. Known for his timeless charm and versatile acting, Dharmendra’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Bollywood. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the actor, stating that his death signifies the end of an era in Indian cinema. Born on December 8, 1935, in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, Dharmendra, originally named Dharam Singh Deol, hailed from a middle-class Jatt-Sikh family. Despite his father’s aspirations for him to pursue education, Dharmendra’s passion for films led him to win the All India Talent Contest by Filmfare magazine, catapulting him into the world of cinema. His debut in 1960 with ‘Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere’ marked the beginning of a stellar career that saw him star in over 300 films, including the cult classic ‘Sholay’ (1975), where he played the unforgettable character Veeru. Dharmendra’s on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini, whom he later married, became legendary, and their romance captivated audiences. Beyond his acting prowess, Dharmendra ventured into politics, serving as a BJP MP from 2005 to 2009, though he admitted that politics was not his true calling. Throughout his life, Dharmendra remained humble, often expressing gratitude for the love he received from fans. His contributions to Hindi cinema were recognized with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012. Dharmendra’s legacy as the ‘original He-Man of Bollywood’ and his ability to connect with audiences through his performances will continue to inspire generations.