Born: December 8,1935
There is ample material across books, magazines, and the web celebrating the legends of Hindi cinema, yet Dharmendra’s rise and lasting success hold a special charm of their own. My memories go back to the early 1960s, when I first saw a few of his early films such as Neela Akash, Devar, and Anpadh. Even in those performances, Dharmendra stood out—handsome, dignified, and effortlessly expressive. One of my aunties was an admirer, and I still remember how often he appeared on the covers of Filmfare, a sign of both his popularity and the industry’s growing confidence in him.
As his career progressed, some of the finest directors of the era—most notably Hrishikesh Mukherjee—began casting him in roles that blended sensitivity with star presence. Films like Phool Aur Patthar, Aaye Milan Ki Bela, and Ankhen became major box-office hits, establishing him as a leading man who could handle drama, romance, and action with equal ease.
When Aradhana released in 1969, Rajesh Khanna became an overnight phenomenon, setting off a wave that swept through the industry and briefly overshadowed almost every other actor. Yet,Dharmendra remained the one star who was not shaken by this shifting tide. His career continued its steady upward rise, powered not by hype but by consistent performances, a devoted fan base, and a versatility that allowed him to flourish across genres.
The early 1970s marked a new phase, especially with his pairing opposite Hema Malini. Together, they delivered a string of successful films that captivated audiences across the country. By the mid-1980s, Dharmendra and Hema Malini had become one of the most beloved and respected star couples in Indian cinema—a partnership that eventually grew into a real-life marriage, adding a fairy-tale touch to their story.
Dharmendra has appeared in over 300 films, with some sources specifying 306 films, over his career spanning more than six decades. He is considered one of the most successful and influential actors in Indian cinema history and holds the record for starring in the highest number of hit films
Known as the “He-Man of Hindi cinema,” he combined rugged charm with down-to-earth simplicity — a rare blend that kept female admirers devoted to him for over sixty years.
Maintaining decades-long popularity and success is a rare feat in Indian cinema. Dharmendra stands out in Hindi films, while in the South, only legends like Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan can be counted among his peers
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