Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra passed away on Monday. His co-star Rajesh Kumar, who worked with him on his last film ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’, recently shared several intimate anecdotes about the superstar.
Kumar revealed a lesser-known facet of Dharmendra’s personality. He emphasized that Dharmendra was deeply connected to his roots, truly “a farmer at heart.” Dharmendra often greeted Kumar by affectionately calling him “my farmer friend.”
Dharmendra’s passion for agriculture was profound and personal. He once invited Kumar and his fellow farmers to his home. There, he attentively listened to their concerns, particularly regarding fair pricing for their produce.
He insisted farmers receive proper compensation for their hard work. Dharmendra even offered his assistance with marketing their natural vegetables and grains, saying they should ask for help if needed.
Dharmendra also cultivated his own land. He frequently discussed new farming ideas, despite his health declining with age. His mindset remained youthful and innovative when it came to agricultural practices. He believed farming held immense potential with the right vision and market.
Kumar also highlighted Dharmendra’s enduring passion for acting. When they first collaborated, Dharmendra immediately cast him in the “Mama” role. His dedication to his craft never diminished, even in his later years.
Dharmendra displayed unique work habits on set. He would receive his scripts in Roman English. However, he preferred to turn to the back pages and meticulously write his dialogues in Urdu. After each shot, he meticulously reviewed his performance on the monitor.
Rajesh Kumar regarded Dharmendra as a “real-life hero.” Despite his failing health, Dharmendra’s spirit remained unbroken. He once famously stated, “The first 50 years I spent making the name Dharmendra; then the rest of my life I lived for Dharmendra.”
This profound statement, according to Kumar, encapsulates the entirety of his life. Dharmendra was not merely a name but a responsibility he upheld with unwavering commitment. He neither faltered nor stopped throughout his remarkable journey.