A legendary actor’s journey comes to an end, leaving behind a rich legacy. Dharmendra, the iconic Bollywood star, passed away at 89, leaving fans heartbroken. But his story is more than just a tragic loss; it’s a testament to his remarkable career and life.
Dharmendra’s acting career took off in the 1960s, initially as a romantic lead, but he soon became synonymous with action roles. His rise to fame began with the 1960 film ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere’, and he quickly became a household name. But here’s where his story takes an intriguing turn: despite his success as a romantic hero, he found his true calling in action films.
In the 1965 war film ‘Haqeeqat’, Dharmendra’s performance gained critical acclaim. However, it was the 1966 film ‘Phool Aur Patthar’ that solidified his status as a bankable star. From then on, he dominated the box office with hits like ‘Mera Gaon Mera Desh’, ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’, and the iconic ‘Sholay’. And this is the part most people miss—he didn’t just act; he also had a successful political career!
In the 1980s, Dharmendra’s career evolved as he transitioned into action-packed roles, often leading ensemble casts. This shift earned him the title ‘He Man of India’. But his versatility didn’t stop there. He seamlessly moved into character roles, showcasing his range in films like ‘Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya’ and ‘Johnny Gaddaar’.
Dharmendra’s personal life was just as captivating. He married Prakash Kaur at a young age and had four children, including Sunny and Bobby Deol, who followed in his acting footsteps. In a controversial move, he married his co-star Hema Malini in 1980, with whom he had two daughters. This decision sparked debates about his personal life, adding a layer of intrigue to his already fascinating story.
The actor’s contributions were recognized with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award. He also ventured into politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for the Bharatiya Janata Party. But the question remains: was his political career as influential as his on-screen presence? Share your thoughts below!