Bollywood mourns the death of Dharmendra at 89, the iconic "He-Man of Indian cinema" who revolutionised Hindi films with his charisma and versatile performances across six decades. Dharmendra passed away at his Mumbai residence, days before his 90th birthday on December 8.

A Cinematic Legend's Journey

Dharmendra's breakthrough came in 1966 with Phool Aur Patthar , establishing him as a bankable superstar. However, it was his legendary role as Veeru in Sholay (1975) that cemented him as Bollywood's evergreen hero, creating timeless bromance alongside Amitabh Bachchan. The film remains a watershed moment in Indian cinema, with Sholay honoured as Filmfare's best film of 50 years.

His unmatched versatility enabled seamless transitions from action-packed blockbusters to romantic comedies and dramas. Films like Chupke Chupke , Seeta Aur Geeta , and Yaadon Ki Baaraat showcased his remarkable range, making him one of Hindi cinema's most bankable stars throughout the 1960s-1980s.

Iconic Hit Songs That Defined An Era

Dharmendra's filmography featured unforgettable songs that remain Bollywood classics, predominantly sung by the legendary duo of Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar across multiple decades.

From Sholay (1975):

"Yeh Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge" emerged as cinema's ultimate friendship anthem, transcending generations as an ode to camaraderie. Sung by Kishore Kumar and Manna Dey, the song consistently dominates polls, with 52% of respondents naming it their favourite Sholay track.

"Koi Haseena Jab Rooth Jaati Hai" showcased Dharmendra's romantic charm opposite Hema Malini in playful banter, becoming one of the film's most cheerful crowd favourites.

"Holi Ke Din Dil Khil Jaate Hai" captured the festive spirit and romantic energy of the beloved Holi sequence.

Also Read: When Dharmendra nearly shot Amitabh Bachchan

From the Dharmendra-Kishore Kumar Collaboration:

"Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas Tum Rehti Ho" from Blackmail (1973) became one of their most celebrated romantic duets, epitomising the golden age of Bollywood romance.

"Gaadi Bula Rahi Hai" and "Dekha Hai Zindagi Ko" from Sitamgar showcased Kishore's soulful renditions with Dharmendra's magnetic screen presence.

From His Other Iconic Films:

"Gar Tum Bhoola Na Doge" from Yakeen and "Yakeen Karlo Mujhe Mohabbat" highlighted his romantic versatility.

"Mere Dil Ne Jo Maanga", "Ae Hawa Yeh Bata", and "Aapko Pyar Chhupane Ki Buri Aadat Hai" showcased Lata Mangeshkar's timeless vocals over Dharmendra's emotive performances.

"Main Tere Ishq Mein" from Loafer (1971) and "Tu Mera Main Teri" captured the depth of romantic anguish.

From Seeta Aur Geeta (1972):

"Arre Zindagi Hai Khel" and "Abhi Toh Haath Mein" showcased his comedic and romantic prowess alongside Hema Malini.

"Kya Nazare Kya Sitare" from Jheel Ke Us Paar demonstrated his appeal across diverse romantic narratives.

An Unparalleled Legacy

His on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini produced legendary collaborations across 45 films, with 20 becoming major hits. Recognised for his immense contribution to Indian cinema, Dharmendra received the Padma Bhushan in 2012, India's third-highest civilian honour.