Dharmendra Biography (2025): Real Name, Age, Origin, Family & Net Worth
Dharmendra, whose full name is Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol, was a phenomenal Indian actor and politician whose incredible performances in Indian cinema earned him the name ‘He-Man of Bollywood.’ He starred in more than 300 films, some of which are considered absolute classics by all and sundry. His charm, versatility, and remarkable presence in the industry for more than six decades endeared him to millions of fans and followers within and outside India.
Quick Facts
| Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol |
| Date of Birth | December 8, 1935 |
| Age (at death, 2025) | 89 years old |
| Place of Birth / Origin | Nasrali, Punjab, British India (now Punjab, India) |
| Ethnic / Religious Background | Punjabi, Deol family |
| Education | Ramgarhia College, Phagwara; Panjab University, Chandigarh |
| Profession | Actor, Producer, Politician |
| Political Career | Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, BJP (2004–2009) |
| Spouse(s) | Prakash Kaur (m. 1954); Hema Malini (m. 1980) |
| Children | 6 (including actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Ahana Deol |
| Major Awards | Padma Bhushan (2012), Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Net Worth | ₹ 335–450 crore (approx.) |
| Date of Death | November 24, 2025 |
Early Life and Background
Dharmendra, as he was popularly known, was born on the 8th of December 1935 in the small village of Nasrali in Punjab. He undertook his secondary education at Ramgarhia College in Phagwara. He began and completed his university education at Panjab University in Chandigarh. Early in his life, he showed the passion and desire for acting, which he eventually pursued.
Career and Rise to Fame
Dharmendra took his first step into Bollywood with his debut movie titled Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, released in 1960. Over the years spanning his long career, he showcased his immense talent and incredible versatility, acting in different character roles. Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, and Chupke Chupke are among his most notable movies he’s starred in.
His charm, versatility, and dedication to his craft earned him the name ‘He-Man of Bollywood.’ Beyond acting, he veered into movie production and was also a politician. He served as a Member of Parliament under the ruling BJP party from 2005 to 2009.
Personal Life & Legacy
Dharmendra gave birth to many children. His first wife, Prakash Kaur, whom he married in 1954, bore him four children: Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta. He married his co-star Hema Malini in 1980, who bore him two daughters, namely Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. Dharmendra built and maintained a strong family legacy, and his talent flows in the blood of his descendants, for many of them veered into Bollywood.
Dharmendra’s story showcases his rise from a village boy to one of Bollywood’s most recognizable and charming actors and personalities. He was recognized officially by the State of India when he was conferred the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s major civilian awards, in 2012. Dharmendra died in November 2025, but his massive impact on Bollywood will never be forgotten, and his legacy will endure for generations.
