Dharmendra's Multi-Crore Legacy: Who Will Inherit the Bollywood Legend's Ancestral Properties?

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai on November 24. His passing marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned several decades, leaving a significant void in the Indian film industry. Survived by his wife, the legendary actress Hema Malini, and his six children, Dharmendra's legacy extends beyond his cinematic contributions to his vast real estate and business holdings.

Born in Nasrali, Dharmendra has ancestral ties to Dango in the Ludhiana district. His journey from a modest mud-and-brick house to becoming the owner of a multi-crore property empire is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Over the years, Dharmendra accumulated a diverse portfolio of assets, including real estate, restaurants, film production ventures, and long-term investments.

The Dharam Veer actor's real estate holdings are estimated to be worth Rs 450 crore. These include his ancestral home in Ludhiana, multi-crore properties in Lonavala, wellness areas, and farmland. His commercial properties in Mumbai alone are valued at over Rs 17 crore. One of his ambitious projects was to build 30 cottages in Lonavala as a commercial resort, though this plan remains unfinished.

Despite his vast holdings and his long legacy, it appears that his six children—Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, Ajeeta, Esha Deol, and Ahana Deol—will not be the primary beneficiaries of his ancestral property. According to a report by Dainik Bhaskar, Dharmendra had entrusted his property to the children of his uncle. Reportedly worth Rs 5 crore, the land holds significant sentimental value. One of his nephews, Boota Singh, who works in Ludhiana, is likely to be the recipient of this generous gift.

However, the complete breakdown of Dharmendra's will has not been made public, as the family has requested privacy. This decision came in the wake of several media outlets prematurely announcing his demise without official confirmation, a situation that was later criticized on ethical grounds.

Dharmendra's legacy is not just about his material wealth but also about his contributions to Indian cinema. From playing a Greek warrior to a loving grandfather, he continued to act with passion even in his 80s. He was set to appear in the war film ‘Ikkis,’ where he was to play the on-screen grandfather of Agastya Nanda, immortalizing the valiant sacrifice of Arun Khetarpal.

As the Bollywood fraternity and fans bid farewell to Dharmendra, his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His children, while not inheriting the ancestral property, will undoubtedly carry forward his spirit and dedication to the arts.