Dharmendra: The Man, The Hero, The Legend

Dharmendra: The man, the hero, the legend

Seven decades, over 300 films, and a unique charisma: Dharmendra leaves behind a legacy of heroes, love, and iconic moments etched in our memories for Bollywood and his fans.

With a career spanning nearly seven decades and over 300 films, Dharmendra has established himself as one of Bollywood's most charismatic and beloved faces. A romantic hero, a big-hearted rogue, and an irresistible comedian, he embodied the diversity of Indian cinema. Affectionately nicknamed He-Man for his masculine charm, the actor passed away on Monday in Mumbai at the age of 89.

Dharmendra began his career in the romantic dramas of the 1960s before captivating audiences in action films, all while seamlessly exploring comedy. Among his iconic roles are "Phool Aur Patthar" (1966), where he plays a tender-hearted criminal; "Mera Gaon Mera Desh" (1971), where his character transforms from a thief to the protector of a village; "Chupke Chupke" (1975), a cult comedy where he disguises himself as a driver for a hilarious prank; and, of course, "Sholay" (1975), a masterpiece that has become a monument of Indian cinema, where he and Amitabh Bachchan form the duo Veeru and Jai, small-time criminals tasked with capturing the fearsome bandit Gabbar Singh.

"Sholay" is a national phenomenon: screened for 25 consecutive weeks in over 100 theaters, it is now a cult classic known for its legendary dialogues, memorable songs, and its timeless anthem of friendship. According to journalist and actor biographer Rajiv Vijayakar, "There is no role he cannot embody. He cannot be boxed in."

Dancing was not his forte, but his improvised moves in "Pratiggya" (1975) remain memorable. "I followed the rhythm in my way, and it worked," he remarked with a smile.

Born on December 8, 1935, in Punjab, then under British rule, Dharmendra grew up in Sahnewal, in a village where his father was a school principal. Enchanted from childhood by the romantic drama "Shaheed" (1948) starring Dilip Kumar, he dreamt of the big screen. "My goal was simple: an apartment and a Fiat!" he recounted in 2009.