The year is 1960. 25-year-old Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol makes his silver screen debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Even though his first film is not considered commercially successful but his popularity started rising and reached its peak in his later films. In 1963, released his film Bandini, in which he played the role of a prison doctor who falls in love with a prisoner. This marked the beginning of his popularity.
He became a prominent name in the B-Town for his back-to-back hit films from the late 1960s to the 1980s. Which led to him being named one of the most commercially successful stars and holding the record of appearing in the highest number of successful films in Indian cinema. During the span of his film career, Dharmendra starred in a total of 300 movies.
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Dharmendra's wish to work until death
After the 80s, Dharmendra's number of works took a slow dive. During this time, the legendary actor gave an interview to the Hindustan Times. During the interview, he spoke about his career. He said, "As an actor, I believe in dying with my boots on. And in that respect, ‘the end’ is certainly nowhere near as far as I can tell you."
He had expressed confidence in his career, saying, "However, I don't grudge or envy anybody anything. By the grace of God, I have enough films even today, and some of the top producers and banners never think twice about repeating me."
During the HT interview, Bollywood's most handsome film star pointed out that he is "definitely not out," but he might just have been a bit out of the news as new and young stars entered the industry.
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The legendary actor and Bollywood's 'He-Man' passed away weeks after being sent home following weeks of staying admitted at the hospital. He took his final breath on 24 November 2025, weeks ahead of his birthday, at the age of 89. Leaving his fans and the film fraternity in a state of grief.
Looking back at his Interview, Dharmendra meant what he said. His upcoming film Ikkis is set to be released on 25 December.
