Demise of Veteran Actor Dharmendra

Indian actor Dharmendra has died in Mumbai at the age of 89. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a statement acknowledging the actor's passing, describing it as the "end of an era in Indian cinema."

Career Overview

Dharmendra appeared in over 300 films across several decades. He was widely recognized for his role as Veeru in the 1975 film Sholay. His career spanned various genres, including romance, action, suspense thrillers, and comedies.

Early Life and Entry into Cinema

Born Dharam Singh Deol on 8 December 1935, in Nasrali village, Punjab's Ludhiana district, Dharmendra was from a Jatt-Sikh family. His father, a schoolteacher, encouraged him to pursue studies. Dharmendra developed an early interest in cinema, an aspiration initially met with disapproval from his family.

He secured his entry into the film industry after winning the All India Talent Contest organized by Filmfare magazine, subsequently relocating to Bombay (now Mumbai). His debut film was Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere in 1960.

Key Roles and Genres

Dharmendra gained early recognition for his role in Bimal Roy's 1963 film Bandini. He frequently portrayed romantic leads, often appearing alongside actresses such as Nutan, Meena Kumari, Mala Sinha, and Saira Banu.

His transition into action roles began with Phool Aur Patthar in 1966, followed by Mera Gaon Mera Desh in 1971, which established him in the action genre. He was noted for performing his own stunts. In addition to action and romance, he was also recognized for his comedic performances, notably in the 1975 film Chupke Chupke, where critics highlighted his comic timing.

Personal Life

Dharmendra's most frequent screen partnership was with Hema Malini, who later became his second wife. Their professional collaboration extended to their personal relationship, which developed during the 1970s while co-starring in films such as Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, and Sholay. Dharmendra was previously married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he had children. He and Hema Malini married in 1980. Reports at the time suggested they converted to Islam to facilitate the marriage, a claim Dharmendra later denied.

Political Involvement

From 2005 to 2009, Dharmendra served as a Member of Parliament for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), representing Bikaner in Rajasthan. During his term, his parliamentary attendance was low. He later stated in a television interview that he was "a misfit in politics" and found the experience "very tough" and "difficult," describing politics as "not for emotional people, it's for the thick-skinned."

Later Career

Dharmendra continued to work in the film industry throughout his later years. His activities included acting alongside his sons, Sunny and Bobby Deol, serving as a judge on reality television programs, and engaging with fans through social media.