Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra Deol has passed away at the age of 89, as confirmed by an IANS report. The actor, known for his iconic roles and charismatic screen presence, had been unwell in recent days. He was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month and was discharged on November 12. However, he breathed his last on Monday, November 24, 2025, at his residence, leaving a void in the film fraternity and a profound sorrow among his fans.
Beyond his illustrious cinematic journey, Dharmendra’s foray into politics remains one of the most talked-about chapters of his life. His transition from a revered actor to a politician was marked by exuberant campaign speeches and a sense of disillusionment with the world of governance, creating a saga as dramatic as any film script.
Sholay Spirit on the Campaign Trail
In 2004, Dharmendra entered the political arena, inspired by the BJP’s Shining India campaign. His admiration for political figures like Lal Krishna Advani and Shatrughan Sinha motivated him to take the plunge. Contesting from Rajasthan’s Bikaner constituency on a BJP ticket, he secured a resounding victory over Congress candidate Rameshwar Lal Dudi, winning by nearly 60,000 votes.
On the campaign trail, the actor’s speeches brimmed with cinematic flair, merging his film persona with political charisma. One of his memorable statements—”If the government doesn’t listen to me, I will jump from the roof of Parliament!”—struck a chord with voters, showcasing his signature Sholay-like bravado. Crowds cheered enthusiastically as he embraced the role of the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, blending entertainment with political ambition.
Victory Followed by Disappointment
However, the excitement of electoral success soon turned into disappointment. Once he reached the Lok Sabha, Dharmendra faced criticism for his low visibility in Bikaner and minimal attendance in Parliament. Allegations surfaced suggesting he spent more time shooting films or retreating to his farmhouse rather than engaging actively in his political commitments. Although some supporters contended that he worked behind the scenes, public perception painted him as an ‘absent MP,’ significantly tarnishing his initial glamour.
Dharmendra’s Exit From Politics
By 2009, the veteran star had made a decisive choice: politics was not his calling. He completed his term but chose not to contest elections again. Reflecting on his experiences, he candidly admitted, “I did the work, someone else took the credit… perhaps this world was not meant for me.” His sentiments echoed a growing disillusionment that many public figures experience when confronted with the complexities of governance.
In an emotional revelation, his son Sunny Deol shared that Dharmendra regretted his political stint, revealing that his father “disliked” the political world. This illustrates the stark contrast between the glitzy realm of cinema and the often harsh realities of political life.
Dharmendra’s passing not only marks the end of an era for Indian cinema but also serves to reignite discussions about his brief but impactful political chapter—one filled with fervor, frustration, and heartfelt insights. His legacy will forever intertwine with the narratives of both film and politics in India, leaving an indelible mark on both domains.