Bollywood star Dharmendra has died in the Indian city of Mumbai at the age of 89.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the actor, saying his passing 'marks the end of an era in Indian cinema'.
Dharmendra, who often described himself as 'a simple man', commanded extraordinary affection and loyalty from his millions of fans.
Best known as Veeru, the lovable petty criminal in the 1975 blockbuster Sholay, he appeared in over 300 films, many of which captivated audiences for decades.
Throughout his career, songs featuring him topped the charts, and his romance and marriage with Hema Malini were a constant in the news.
Dubbed the 'original He-Man of Bollywood' and 'Garam (hot) Dharam', Dharmendra was celebrated for his looks and was often featured on global lists of the most handsome men during his prime.
Tributes pour in as stars like Akshay Kumar and Karan Johar remember him as a hero who inspired generations and left an unmatched legacy.
Born on December 8, 1935, in Punjab, Dharmendra's career spanned decades, with his first major role in the 1963 film Bandini. His ability to transition from romantic hero to action star set him apart from his contemporaries.
Despite not consistently being awarded top recognition in Bollywood, Dharmendra's charm, humility, and the love of his fans have truly defined his place in Indian cinema.
His passing is regarded not only as a loss to the film industry but as the closing of a significant chapter in the story of Bollywood.
