Dharmendra has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over 300 films, showcasing his ability to transition seamlessly between intense dramatic roles, romantic characters, and larger-than-life action heroes. In an era when many leading actors struggled to break free from their established images, he stood out as a true all-rounder. His performances ranged from the idealistic hero in socially conscious dramas to the charming lover boy in romantic comedies, and eventually to the powerful action star. This versatility made him a beloved figure in Indian cinema. From his early sensitive roles in the 1960s to his recent appearance in a National Award-winning film, Dharmendra has consistently delivered memorable performances. His collaborations with directors like Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Ramesh Sippy, along with on-screen partnerships with actors like Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, have produced some of Hindi cinema's most iconic moments.
Iconic Collaborations and Romantic Pairings
Sholay in 1975 remains one of the most significant films in Dharmendra's career, where his playful and emotional Veeru perfectly complemented Amitabh Bachchan's reserved Jai. The Ramesh Sippy-directed film exemplified bromance in Hindi cinema, while Dharmendra's romance with Hema Malini became legendary. The same year, Chupke Chupke displayed his comedic talent as botany professor Parimal Tripathi, who disguises himself as a Hindi-loving driver. His pairing with Hema Malini in Seeta Aur Geeta in 1972 solidified them as a favorite couple, leading to collaborations in over two dozen films including Dreamgirl, Charas, and Raja Rani.
From Sensitive Dramas to Action Entertainers
Dharmendra excelled in thoughtful dramas directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Anupama in 1966 featured him as a sensitive writer helping an introverted woman, while Satyakam in 1969 explored integrity and idealism, winning the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi. His action films like Yaadon Ki Barat in 1973 popularized the lost brother theme, while Pratigya in 1975 featured the memorable song that later inspired Yamla Pagla Deewana in 2011. The 2007 film Apne and its sequel brought the Deol family together. His recent role in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani in 2023 showcased his enduring appeal.
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