Some of Dharmendra's Finest Films

Veteran actor Dharmendra is in hospital and recovering well. Here is a tribute to him by recalling some of his finest films. Dharmendra is arguably the most versatile actor of the 1960s and 1970s. Born on 8 December 1935 in Phagwara, Dharmendra made his acting debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tera in 1960 and went on to become one of the most versatile and beloved actors in Indian cinema. From intense action roles to heartwarming romantic characters and effortless comedy, his charm was unmatched.

Here are some of Dharmendra's finest films that showcase why he is regarded as one of the greatest stars of Indian cinema .

1. Phool Aur Patthar - This film turned Dharmendra into a superstar and brought him major success as he portrayed the rugged yet kind-hearted Shaka. The actor presented a combination of masculinity and emotion on the big screen, complemented by electric chemistry with Meena Kumari. The film was electrifying, and its moral depth made it a blockbuster

2. Satyakam - Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Satyakam is considered one of Dharmendra's finest performances. He truly shone in the role of an honest man struggling to live by his principles in a corrupt world. The film is emotional and philosophical, presenting Dharmendra at his most intense.

3. Chupke Chupke - A delightful comedy by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Chupke Chupke showcases Dharmendra's impeccable comic timing. As Professor Tripathi, he devises a humorous prank that leaves everyone in splits. His scenes with Sharmila Tagore and Amitabh Bachchan remain fan  favorites 

4. Sholay - Every Dharmendra list is incomplete without Sholay. As Veeru, the fun-loving partner of Jai (Amitabh Bachchan), Dharmendra created one of the most iconic characters in Indian cinema. His dialogue, "Basanti, in kutton ke samne mat nachna," remains immortal.

5. Anupama - A romantic drama in which Dharmendra plays Ashok, a sensitive man who falls in love. The story unfolds through silence, emotion, and unspoken affection, with Dharmendra delivering a subtle and soulful performance, supported by timeless songs like "Ya Dil Ki Suno"

6. Yaadon Ki Baarat - A musical drama directed by Nasir Hussain. Yaadon Ki Baarat follows the story of three brothers separated in childhood and reunited by fate. Dharmendra's heroic role and the melodious music made it an iconic film of the 1970s .

7. Dream Girl - Reunited with Hema Malini, Dream Girl is a classic entertainer of the 1970s. Dharmendra's charm and effortless performance made the film an enjoyable romantic drama. The chemistry between the leads was once again a major highlight.

Some Unknown Facts About Dharamender 

• Won the Filmfare New Talent Hunt in 1958, which launched his Bollywood career.

• Made his debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960), which didn’t perform well but showcased his potential.

• Was once rejected by a studio for being “too handsome” to act.

• Regularly visits his native village Sahnewal in Punjab despite decades of stardom.

• Earned the title “He-Man of Bollywood” after powerful performances in films like Phool Aur Patthar and Sholay.

• Was initially shy and would blush while performing romantic scenes.

• Despite many iconic roles, never won a Filmfare Best Actor Award.

• Received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997.

• Served as a Member of Parliament from Bikaner (Rajasthan) in 2004 representing the BJP.

• Writes Hindi and Urdu poetry reflecting his emotions and life philosophy.

• Loves animals and personally takes care of cows, dogs, and birds at his farmhouse near Lonavala.

• Shares a deep off-screen friendship with Amitabh Bachchan.

• Married Hema Malini in 1980 after reportedly converting to Islam.

• Acted in over 300 films across six decades of cinema.

• Was introduced to films by director Arjun Hingorani, who also cast him in his final movie.

• Known for maintaining a fit, muscular physique long before fitness became a trend in India.

Tribute To a Legend - Satish Shah 

Some of Finest Movies of Kamal Hasan