Dharmendra Biography: Early Life, Struggle to Stardom, Family, Awards & Everything About Bollywood’s He-Man

Dharmendra, affectionately known as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” is one of the most beloved and enduring figures in Indian cinema. He was born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Ludhiana district, Punjab, into a traditional Jat Sikh family. He completed his schooling at Government Senior Secondary School, Lalton Kalan, and pursued his intermediate studies at Ramgarhia College, Phagwara. Though he ended formal education after Class 12, his passion for films and unwavering determination laid the foundation for a legendary career.

Dharmendra rose from a small-town boy in Punjab to a national sensation through hard work and determination. He made his acting debut in 1960 with Dill Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, a film that marked his entry into Bollywood and set the stage for his journey toward becoming one of the industry’s biggest stars.

Dharmendra’s major breakthrough came with Phool Aur Patthar (1966), which showcased his powerful screen presence and established him as a leading man. While initially celebrated for his charm and romantic appeal, his tall frame, rugged looks, and versatility soon made him a top choice for action roles. In Dillagi (1978), he surprised audiences by playing a softer role as a Sanskrit professor, contrasting his usual “He-Man” persona.

Dharmendra’s first wife was Prakash Kaur, and together they had four children: sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, who went on to become well-known Bollywood actors, and daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta, who have largely led private lives away from the film industry.

Dharmendra and Hema Malini first met on the sets of Tum Haseen Main Jawaan (1970), where their chemistry quickly grew on and off screen. They went on to work in over 40 films, including the iconic Sholay, making their pairing unforgettable. In 1979, Dharmendra reportedly converted to Islam to marry Hema without divorcing his first wife, taking the name Dilawar Khan Kewal Krishn, while Hema reportedly adopted the name Aisha Bi R. Chakravarty for their nikah.

In recent years, Dharmendra continued to shine on screen with memorable roles across films and web series. In Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, he charmed audiences as Jai Singh Agnihotri, while in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023), he delivered a heartfelt performance as Kanwal Randhawa. He also appeared in the action-drama Love Nation and impressed viewers as Salim Chisti in the series Taj: Divided by Blood. His upcoming film Ikkis, set to release on 25th December, marks another highly anticipated chapter in his legendary career.

Dharmendra’s remarkable contribution to Indian cinema has been celebrated with several prestigious honours. In 1997, he was awarded the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award for his lasting impact on Bollywood. In 2012, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Bhushan, the country’s third-highest civilian award, acknowledging his outstanding service and immense influence in the world of arts.