Beyond cinema: The untold story of Dharmendra’s turbulent political journey

After completing his term in 2009, Dharmendra announced that he would never contest elections again.

Veteran film actor Dharmendra died on Monday at his residence in Mumbai after a brief illness. He was 89.

He died days ahead of his 90th birthday on December 8, 2025. His last rites will be performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium.

As condolences poured in, here is a look at his brief but eventful journey.

The beginning

He hailed from Sahnewal town near Punjab's industrial town Ludhiana.  His entry into politics began in 2004 when he joined the BJP during the party’s “India Shining” campaign. Encouraged by senior leaders, including LK Advani, Dharmendra was fielded by Bikaner, Rajasthan. Riding on his immense popularity, he defeated Congress candidate Rameshwar Lal Dudi by nearly 60,000 votes to become a Member of Parliament in the 14th Lok Sabha.

However, he refused to contest against Balram Jakhar from Churu in Rajasthan in the 2004 Lok Sabha polls. Dharmendra’s campaign drew attention for both his popularity and controversies. During the election, he faced criticism for saying he should be “elected dictator perpetuo to teach basic etiquette that democracy requires”.

Once elected, his tenure was defined by limited parliamentary participation. Reports from the period suggested that he attended a few sessions.

According to reports, the people of Bikaner often complained that the MP was inaccessible. Despite allegations of being an "absentee" MP, his supporters always claimed that he worked extensively for Bikaner behind the scenes.

Why did 'He-man' quit politics?

After completing his five-year term, Dharmendra openly expressed regret about his political foray.  Later his son and actor Sunny Deol later said in an interview that his father “did not like politics” and often felt disheartened by its inner workings. Dharmendra himself had once said, “Kaam main karta tha, credit koi aur le jaata tha (I used to do the work, someone else would take the credit). Perhaps that place wasn’t for me.”

However, Dharmendra campaigned for  Sunny Del who contested from Gurdaspur on a BJP ticket in 2019.

“I have come here not to deliver political speeches as I am not a politician. I am a patriot and I am here to have knowledge of local issues," Dharmendra told reporters.

In his later years, he was never part of active politics but continued to voice opinions on national matters. During the farmers’ protest in 2021, he expressed solidarity with farmers. “I hope today my farmer brothers get justice. I pray with all my heart. Every noble soul will get relief," he wrote on social media.

PM condoles

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday condoled the death of Bollywood actor Dharmendra. Taking to X, the BJP leader said the actor's death marked the end of an era for Indian cinema.

“The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played. The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, friends and innumerable fans. Om Shanti,” PM Modi wrote on X.