Long before he became Bollywood’s “He-Man,” Dharmendra Kewal Krishna Deol was just a small-town boy from Nasrali, Ludhiana, who fell in love with cinema after watching the 1948 classic Shaheed. The film, starring Dilip Kumar, Kamini Kaushal, and Leela Chitnis, sparked something profound in the young Dharmendra — a dream that would one day make him one of Indian cinema’s biggest icons.

Early dreams and inspiration

Speaking to India TV, Dharmendra recalled how, at just 13, he would stand before the mirror and say to himself, “Mai Dilip Kumar banna chahta hu” (I want to become Dilip Kumar).

“When I saw Dilip Kumar and other actors, I wondered where these beauties came from. I felt I belonged among them,” he shared.

His early fascination with films and innate charisma propelled him toward the film industry, even though he had no connections or resources. Despite facing struggles in academics, he was determined to find his calling on the silver screen.

Humble beginnings and first earnings

Dharmendra’s first few years in Mumbai were filled with hardship and uncertainty, but his perseverance eventually paid off. As he started gaining recognition in the industry, he bought his first car — a modest Fiat — despite his brother Ajit’s disapproval.

“My brother said, ‘Paaji, you could have bought a better-looking car with an open roof; you’re a hero!’ But I told him, ‘We can’t trust this industry. If I stop getting work, I’ll turn this Fiat into a taxi and earn a living,’” Dharmendra said in his interview.

This humility and foresight became trademarks of Dharmendra’s character — a superstar who remained grounded even at the peak of fame.

Rise to stardom

From the mid-1960s onwards, Dharmendra’s career skyrocketed. His rugged charm and intense performances earned him the tag of Bollywood’s Action King and He-Man. He broke conventions by flaunting his physique on screen — a trend that was virtually unheard of in that era.

In fact, Jaya Bachchan once famously said on Koffee With Karan in 2007 that Dharmendra “looked like a Greek God.” His performances in Phool Aur Patthar (1966) and Dharam Veer (1977) not only established him as an action hero but also redefined masculine appeal in Hindi cinema.

Box-office hits and versatile roles

Dharmendra’s golden streak began in the 1960s with films like Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Mamta (1966), Anupama (1966), and Aaye Din Baahar Ke (1966). Even his critically acclaimed but commercially underperforming films like Dulhan Ek Raat Ki and Majhli Didi opposite Nutan, and Chandan Ka Palna with Meena Kumari, showcased his versatility and emotional depth.

By 1968, with hits like Shikhar, Akhain, Izzat, and Mere Hamdam Mere Dost, Dharmendra had firmly established himself among the top stars of Bollywood. Despite the arrival of superstar Rajesh Khanna in 1969, Dharmendra’s popularity remained unaffected. He, along with Manoj Kumar, continued to draw audiences through his distinct style and mass appeal.

Superstardom and personal life

The 1970s marked the pinnacle of Dharmendra’s stardom. Films such as Jeevan Mrityu, Tum Haseen Main Jawaan, Sharafat, and Kab? Kyun? Aur Kahan? strengthened his dominance at the box office. Two of these films featured Hema Malini, with whom he developed one of Bollywood’s most talked-about relationships.

Their eventual marriage stirred considerable controversy due to Dharmendra’s existing marriage, but their bond endured both personal and professional challenges. Together, they became one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated couples.

Enduring legacy

Even after over six decades in the industry, Dharmendra remains active in films. His recent appearances in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023) and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) prove that his screen presence still captivates audiences.

From a young boy who dreamt of being like Dilip Kumar to an actor whose name became synonymous with strength, romance, and humility, Dharmendra’s story is a timeless reminder of how passion and perseverance can turn dreams into destiny.