The Indian film industry recently mourned the passing of Dharmendra, a legendary actor whose career spanned over six decades. He passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, leaving behind a cinematic legacy that included more than 300 films. His funeral was attended by many prominent figures from the industry, reflecting the deep respect he commanded.
Dharmendra’s journey to stardom was far from easy, marked by initial resistance from his family. Born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali village, part of Punjab’s Ludhiana district, his aspirations to become an actor and move to Bombay (now Mumbai) were met with strong disapproval. He once recounted a heartfelt conversation with his mother about his dream.
He revealed in an interview that he told his mother, “I will go to Bombay, Mom.” Her immediate reaction was to place her hand over his mouth, warning him to keep silent. She feared the consequences from his father, telling him, “Don’t say that, son, your father will throw me out of the house along with you.”
Despite her initial apprehension, his mother’s heart softened. Seeing his desire, she offered a subtle encouragement, suggesting, “Son, why don’t you send an application? You are good-looking, they will call you.” This small gesture of support proved to be a turning point.
Dharmendra believed his mother’s quiet prayer was answered when Filmfare magazine published applications for a talent contest. He recalled the Frontier Mail train that departed for Mumbai around 11 PM from his locality. He would often whisper to it, “Frontier Mata, take me to Bombay.” He credited divine intervention for hearing his pleas, eventually taking that very train to Mumbai to begin his career.
His acting debut came in 1960 with the film ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere’. He continued to grace the screen in a prolific career, earning him the affectionate title of “He-Man” for his charismatic presence.
Reflecting on his early life, Dharmendra shared another anecdote involving his mother. He was one of six siblings, and his elder brother Santosh had passed away at the age of two. Upon his birth, his mother, while visiting her maternal home, commented to her father, “Father, Santosh was more beautiful. This one is not that beautiful.” Dharmendra, whose full name was Dharmendra Kewal Krishna Deol, was the son of Kewal Krishna and Satwant Kaur. His early years were spent in Sanehwal village, where he attended the government school where his father served as headmaster, and later completed his higher education at Punjab University.
His personal experiences also shaped his views on family dynamics. He often spoke about wishing his own father had been more of a friend. He noted a similar dynamic with his sons, Sunny and Bobby, who he felt were afraid of him, and he wished for a more open connection. He remembered his father asking him to come home early from filming just to sit with him, a tenderness he yearned to reciprocate with his own children.
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Dharmendra’s career, marked by a deep connection to his humble roots and a profound appreciation for family, will be further celebrated with his final film, ‘Ikkis’, which is set to release on December 25, 2025. His life story remains a testament to perseverance and the enduring power of dreams.