In a career spanning half a century and over 300 films, Dharmendra has given a large number of hits, across genres, with the best directors and some new ones, writes Deepa Gahlot
A pick of ten of his biggest hits:
Phool Aur Patthar (1966):
This OP Ralhan film made him a star. It created his “He-Man” image—specifically the scene where he takes off his shirt, a rarity for heroes at the time, and his tender, protective romance with a helpless widow (Meena Kumari), gave him a large female fan base.
Ankhen (1968):
This Ramanand Sagar film was one of Bollywood’s earliest spy thrillers. It was a box office success, praised for its international feel (shot in Beirut and Japan) and its patriotic undertones.
Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971):
Before Sholay, there was Raj Khosla’s Mera Gaon Mera Desh, which established the template for the dacoit drama trending in that period. Dharmendra’s intensity as a reformed thief protecting his village was loved by audiences.
Seeta Aur Geeta (1972):
While Hema Malini had the double role, Dharmendra’s part as the street-smart acrobat Raka was the perfect foil to her character. It was a big hit, and showcased his flair for comedy.
Jugnu (1973):
In this Pramod Chakravorty film, he played Ashok, Robin Hood-esque character, who is a jewel thief and philanthropist, and it was one of the biggest hits of the year.
Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973):
Nasir Hussain’s film used the familiar trope of brothers separated at birth, in which he played the oldest, with a distinctive look. It was a musical hit and further solidified his status as an A-list star who could carry a multi-hero project.
Chupke Chupke (1975):
Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s comedy cult classic that proved once and for all that he wasn’t just an action star. His role as the botany professor pretending to be a driver is widely considered one of the best comic performances in Hindi cinema history.
Sholay (1975):
Undeniably the biggest hit of his career, directed by Ramesh Sippy, in the role of the happy-go-lucky, yet fighting fit Veeru, his chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan (Jai) and Hema Malini (Basanti) is legendary. The “suicide” scene atop the water tank remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic comedic moments.
Dharam Veer (1977):
A blockbuster directed by Manmohan Desai, it cemented his image as the tough hero of the masses. His gladiatorial look and bond with Jeetendra drew the audiences to the costuma drama, not a genre he usually worked in.
Hukumat (1987):
This film marked Dharmendra’s massive comeback in the late 80s, after a few generic action movies. It was the highest-grossing film of 1987, leaving behind films by younger stars. This Anil Sharma film proved that his action avatar still had immense pull in single-screen theatres.
