Veteran actor Dharmendra Deol fondly known as the “He-Man” of Bollywood passed away on 24 November 2025 at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that spans more than six decades.

The beloved star had been discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on 12 November after treatment for respiratory issues, and was recuperating at home when he died. As news of his passing spread, tributes flooded in from across the film fraternity. Celebrities described his departure as “the end of an era”.

Among those paying their respects was Aamir Khan, who recently shared a touching anecdote about his memories with Dharmendra while speaking on the sidelines of the International Film Festival of India. According to news reports, Aamir recalled an occasion when he visited Dharmendra with his son, expressing how much it meant to introduce the younger generation to a living legend.

He described Dharmendra not only as a fine actor but “a great human being … a gentle giant” warm and kind to everyone, whether co-stars or ordinary people.

A powerhouse performer known for his versatility, Dharmendra earned a place in cinematic history with unforgettable performances in films such as Phool Aur Patthar, Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and the cult classic Sholay among hundreds of others. Over his career, he appeared in over 300 films, skilfully balancing roles across genres from action and romance to comedy and drama His final on-screen appearance is slated in the war drama Ikkis, scheduled to release on 25 December 2025 making the film a poignant farewell to a legend More than his cinematic achievements, Dharmendra earned admiration for his humility, warmth and integrity off-screen.

Also Read: Dharmendra’s Final Farewell: Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, and Aamir Khan Bid an Emotional Goodbye

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his demise as the end of an era and mourned the loss of “an iconic film personality” whose performances and charm deeply resonated with generations of Indians. As the nation mourns, Dharmendra’s enduring legacy in the form of his films, his warmth, and the memories he created will continue to live on.

Director Ashwin Kumar’s animated mythological epic Mahavatar Narsimha has emerged as one of the most significant achievements in Indian animation, not only dominating the box office but also carving out a prestigious space on the global stage. After its remarkable theatrical run—where it amassed over ₹300 crore worldwide—the film has now crossed another historic milestone: it has officially qualified for the Best Animated Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently released its list of films eligible for consideration in the animated feature category, featuring 35 titles from around the world. Among internationally acclaimed contenders such as Zootopia 2, Elio, Arco, In Your Dreams, Little Amélie or the Character of Rain, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle, and Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, India’s Mahavatar Narsimha stands tall as a milestone entry. Its inclusion itself is a testament to the growing artistic and technical prowess of India’s animation industry.

According to the Academy’s official statement, all listed films must meet qualifying theatrical release requirements and comply with established rules to advance in the voting process. Members of the Animation Branch vote to determine the five official nominees, and select Academy members outside the branch may opt in, provided they fulfill minimum viewing criteria. Notably, films entered in this category may also be eligible for other categories, including Best Picture, and animated features submitted as their nation’s official entry for International Feature Film may compete here as well.

Mahavatar Narsimha draws upon one of the most powerful narratives from Hindu mythology—the story of Prahlad and the divine emergence of Mahavatar Narsimha, the half-man, half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Blending spiritual depth with cutting-edge animation, the film showcases a visually rich retelling that has resonated with audiences across demographics. Its success also signifies a breakthrough moment for Indian mythological storytelling on a global cinematic platform.

Produced by Kleem Productions in collaboration with Hombale Films, the movie is more than an isolated triumph. It represents the foundation of an ambitious cinematic universe based on the ten avatars (Dashavatara) of Lord Vishnu, promising a series of interconnected mythological sagas in the years ahead.

Also Read: Mahavatar Narsimha – Hari Ki Gaatha Song Lyrics

As the world awaits the announcement of the five final Oscar nominees, Mahavatar Narsimha stands as a proud testament to India’s evolving creative landscape—one where myth, animation, and cinematic excellence meet on an international stage.

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, Aryan Khan, Ameesha Patel and Suniel Shetty were among the many celebrities who arrived to pay their respects at the prayer meeting of veteran actor Dharmendra. The legendary star’s passing has left a deep void in the film industry, prompting a large gathering of colleagues, admirers and family friends on Thursday, November 27. The prayer meet, held from 5 pm to 7:30 pm at a luxury hotel in Mumbai, was organised to honour the timeless legacy of the actor fondly known as the “He-Man” of Bollywood.

Salman Khan, who shared a close and affectionate bond with Dharmendra, was seen entering the venue under heavy security. The superstar has often spoken about Dharmendra’s warmth and fatherly presence in his life. Aryan Khan, son of Shah Rukh Khan, also arrived to offer condolences on behalf of the Khan family, who maintained a long-standing relationship with the Deols.

Dharmendra had recently been hospitalised at Breach Candy Hospital due to various health complications. While he was discharged, reports suggested that he was kept on a ventilator after experiencing severe breathing issues. Despite showing slight improvement, the veteran actor passed away on November 24. His last rites, conducted on the same day, were attended by several prominent stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

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Also Read: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol’s Emotional Tribute to Dad Dharmendra Will Leave You TEARY!

Even in his late 80s, Dharmendra continued to charm audiences with his onscreen presence. He appeared in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and the romantic drama Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, reminding fans of his evergreen appeal. His final performance will be seen posthumously in Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming film Ikkis, co-starring Agastya Nanda, which is slated for a theatrical release on December 25, 2025.

The prayer meeting stood as an emotional tribute to a man whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of cinema lovers.

The demise of Bollywood legend Dharmendra has caused an irreparable loss to Indian cinema as well as to the Deol family. As a tribute to his lifetime of exemplary work, a prayer meeting was organized on Thursday, November 27, at a five-star hotel in Mumbai. Family members, close friends, and several celebrities attended the gathering that was scheduled between 5 pm and 7:30 pm to pay their respects to the legendary actor.

An emotional Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and other family members welcomed the guests as they started to pour in to pay their respects. The function area had huge pictures of Dharmendra across decades showcasing his charisma and stardom. Bobby Deol, Abhay Deol and Karan Deol were also spotted arriving for the function dressed in white as a sign of respect.

Present at the venue to bid their last rites were several prominent film personalities such as Sidharth Malhotra, Jackie Shroff, Malaika Arora, and her son Arhaan Khan. A poster shared by the Deol family on Wednesday termed the gathering as a “celebration of life,” which aptly reflected Dharmendra’s inspiring journey and lasting contribution to Indian cinema.

Emotions Roll At Dharmendra Deol Ji’s Prayer Meet Celebration Of Life

An Emotional Sunny Deol Along With Bobby & Family Greet All. Whole Bollywood Has Joined The Family For A Legendary Sign Off To OG MEGASTAR “Dharm Ji” pic.twitter.com/S3d5YPQ4JW

— Bollywood Legacy Channel (@LegacyChannel_) November 27, 2025

Dharmendra had been recently admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after health complications. He was discharged, but the reports say he was shifted to a ventilator after developing breathing problems. Though he showed slight improvement for a short time, the veteran actor breathed his last on November 24. The last rites of the legendary actor were performed on the same day which were attended by several industry stalwarts including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

Also Read: Hema Malini’s Unseen Moments with Dharmendra Will Melt Your Heart!

Dharmendra was still very active on screen even in his late 80s. He most recently appeared in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His final performance will be seen posthumously in Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis, co-starring Agastya Nanda, scheduled for release on December 25, 2025.

Days after music composer Palash Muchhal was hospitalised following the abrupt postponement of his wedding with Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, new details have emerged regarding his health scare. According to medical professionals attending to him, Palash was rushed to the hospital after experiencing intense chest discomfort, brought on primarily by stress and emotional distress rather than a serious cardiac event.

As per a Mid-day report, Palash first sought treatment at a hospital in Sangli, where he was given initial medical assistance. However, when his condition failed to improve, he was transferred to a Mumbai hospital late on Monday for further evaluation. Dr. Dipendra Tripathi, one of the doctors treating him, stated, “Palash’s condition appears to be linked to stress-related distress rather than a serious cardiac event.”

Upon admission to SRV Hospital in Mumbai, Palash reportedly complained of severe chest pain, uneasiness, and difficulty breathing. Doctors immediately conducted key cardiac assessments, including an ECG and a 2D echocardiography. Though test results showed slightly elevated levels in certain parameters, physicians found no signs of a major cardiac emergency. As part of his stabilisation process, oxygen therapy was initiated, following which he was moved to a general room for observation.

Doctors now believe that the episode was largely triggered by acute stress compounded by anxiety related to recent events. With rest and supportive care, Palash’s condition has improved significantly, and hospital authorities have confirmed that he is stable and recovering well. He is expected to be discharged soon, but doctors have advised him to take complete rest for at least three weeks to ensure a full recovery and avoid recurrence of symptoms.

The update on Palash’s health comes shortly after news that Smriti Mandhana’s father, Shrinivas Mandhana, was discharged from Sarvhit Hospital on November 25. He had fallen ill on the day of the planned wedding—November 23—after experiencing heart attack–like symptoms, prompting immediate hospitalisation. Out of concern for him, Palash decided that the wedding rituals should not proceed until Shrinivas recovered.

Also Read: Did Smriti Mandhana Unfollow Palash Muchhal?

A day later, Palash himself was admitted due to stress. His mother told Hindustan Times that Palash is extremely close to Shrinivas, and the situation deeply affected him. Meanwhile, Smriti has removed all wedding-related posts from her Instagram, sparking curiosity among fans. The couple, who began dating in 2019, publicly confirmed their relationship only in July 2024 after sharing a fifth-anniversary post.