Dharmendra, a beloved icon of Indian cinema known for his charismatic presence and versatile acting, died Monday at the age of 89. His passing marks the end of an era for Bollywood fans worldwide.

Born as Baldev Raj Vij in 1935, Dharmendra rose to fame in the 1960s and dominated Indian screens throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He was often referred to as the 'He-Man' of Bollywood, a title reflecting his strong on-screen persona and enduring appeal. He starred in over 300 films across various genres, showcasing his range as an actor.

Dharmendra’s career spanned several decades, and he captivated audiences with roles in both action films and romantic dramas. Some of his most notable films include 'Sholay,' 'Chupke Chupke,' 'Dharam Veer,' and 'Silsila.' His chemistry with co-stars like Hema Malini and Zeenat Aman was legendary.

Beyond his acting career, Dharmendra was also known for his down-to-earth personality and his love for farming. He maintained a close connection to his roots and often spoke about the importance of agriculture. He is survived by his two sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, both of whom are also prominent actors in the Indian film industry, as well as his actress wife Hema Malini.

The news of his death has been met with widespread grief and tributes from across the entertainment industry and from fans around the globe. Dharmendra's contribution to Indian cinema will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.