How Dharmendra built $50 million empire as he dies days before 90th birthday

A Bollywood icon who built up a $50 million empire has died days before his 90th birthday.

Dharmendra Deol, a celebrated Indian actor dubbed the 'He-Man' of Hindi cinema - died in Mumbai at the age of 89 on Monday (November 24).

He gained major fame in Hindi cinema, with a career spanning six decades and more than 300 films.

Considered one of the industry's most handsome film stars, he was among the best-paid actors of his times.

The actor, known mononymously as Dharmendra, made his debut in 1960 with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.

His major breakthrough came six years later, with Phool Aur Patthar, where he cemented himself as a leading actor.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi led tributes to the actor, adding that his death 'marks the end of an era in Indian cinema'.

The veteran actor wore many hats, serving as both a movie producer and former politician all while building a multi-million dollar business empire.

In the 70s and 80s, he was among the highest-paid leading men, commanding large fees per film and profit shares from producers.

The actor was wise with his money, however, building up a net worth of 450 crore rupees, equivalent to more than $50 million, reports Live Mint.

He had invested in multiple properties in Mumbai, one of the country's most expensive cities.

Among his properties was a 100-acre farmhouse in Lonavala, a luxury hill station between Mumbai and Pune.

It boasted lush gardens, water therapy areas and peaceful landscaped surroundings.

He also built up his own hospitality business, with restaurants inspired by some of his most famous on-screen personas.

These included Garam Dharam Dhaba, a themed restaurant chain styled as a Punjabi roadside eatery.

Then there was the He-Man Restaurant, a nod to his famous Bollywood nickname.

Finally, he reportedly took pride in his car collection, which included a Range Rover Evoque and a Mercedes-Benz SL500.

Despite his wealth, Dharmendra remained humble, telling an interviewer: "I never asked for too much money, and fame is transient. All I ever wanted was people's love."

He added: "I came here just for this love. Everyone loves Dharmendra and I am grateful for that."

Paying tribute to Dharmendra, actor Akshay Kumar said: "Growing up, Dharmendra was the hero every boy wanted to be.

"Thank you for inspiring generations. You'll live on through your films and the love you spread."