Mumbai: Bollywood’s iconic “He-Man,” Dharmendra, passed away on Monday, 24 November 2025, leaving the film industry and fans in deep mourning. His death coincides with a remarkable connection—legendary writer Salim Khan, the mind behind blockbuster hits like Sholay, turned 90 on the very same day, marking a poignant and emotional coincidence.
Life and Final Days:
The veteran actor, celebrated for his charisma and contribution to Hindi cinema, had recently been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month and was receiving treatment at home in Juhu, Mumbai. On Monday morning, his condition deteriorated rapidly, prompting emergency services to arrive at his residence. Family members, including daughter Esha Deol and wife Hema Malini, rushed to the crematorium, followed by industry stalwarts like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Salman Khan.
A Bond Beyond Films:
Dharmendra and Salim Khan share a bond dating back to 1958–59, spanning over six decades. They collaborated on several iconic projects, including the 1998 film Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, starring Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan, and Kajol. Salim Khan often referred to Dharmendra as a family member and elder brother, praising their shared struggles and numerous commonalities in life and cinema.
Salim Khan revealed in interviews, “Dharm Ji and I have had a very old association. We have seen a lot together. He is an incredible person, and whenever a role needed to be cast, he was always my first choice. He has always been like family to us.”
A Poignant Coincidence:
While Salim Khan celebrated his 90th birthday on Monday, Dharmendra’s 90th birthday was just two weeks away, adding to the emotional weight of the day for the Deol family and the entire Bollywood fraternity. The industry joins the family in mourning, paying tribute to a man whose legacy will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions.
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