‘Dharmendra’s films made us laugh, cry and taught us romance too’

From the romantic in Jhilmil Sitaron Ka Aangan Hoga, to the comic madness of Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana, Dharmendra's humour was effortless, his emotions pure, his screen presence unforgettable.

Dharmendra was the heart-throb women adored and the man men secretly wished to be.

Written by Neha Jain

Pune | Updated: November 25, 2025 05:42 PM IST

4 min read

Every generation has its favourite filmstar — someone whose presence defines an era. But then there are a rare few who become legends. Dharmendra is one such name. He was the heart-throb women adored and the man men secretly wished to be. From the romantic in Jhilmil Sitaron Ka Aangan Hoga, to the comic madness of Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana, his humour was effortless, his emotions pure, his screen presence unforgettable. And with Yeh Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge, he became the eternal symbol of friendship. Dharmendra leaves behind a legacy of cult films archived in the memories of movie lovers. For many Punekars, who grew up watching him, Dharmendra wasn’t just a hero on screen — he was a part of their homes, their friendships, their weekends, and their memories. Here are a few memories:

Dharmendra was not just a superstar; he was a part of our youth memories. We have grown up watching his movies. His charisma has always reflected in every character he has played. I still remember sitting in front of the TV, completely mesmerised by his charm in Seeta Aur Geeta, his sincerity in Sharafat, or his unforgettable presence in Sholay. May his soul rest in peace. He will always remain my favourite hero. — Sanjeevani Jain,60

Dharmendra’s movies and charisma are etched in my memory from my childhood. For me and my elder brother Ashok, he was our first role model. I wanted to romance the way he did in Chupke Chupke, fight with the flair of Dharam Veer, connect with people like he did in Chacha Bhatija, and make others laugh the way he effortlessly did in the iconic Mausi scene from Sholay. As a Life Coach, I deeply appreciate how he balanced action, emotion, and humor in his roles, inspiring audiences to face life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. His authenticity and dedication to his craft are qualities that resonate deeply, especially when I am guiding people through their own life journeys.

—Narendra Goidani, 56

Emotions played a real role in films of his era. Dharmendra’s films made us cry, made us laugh and taught us romance too. I remember watching all of his films. We would usually go in the matinee shows, and sometimes even buy tickets in black—just so we wouldn’t miss them. His films never let us down, it was paisa vasool everytime.

—Nanchand Oswal, 69

Our childhood hero is lost today. His memories will never vanish from our eyes. We never missed his films — they touched the heart. I feel sad for Hema Malini, who is still so full of grace. Ram Balram and Sholay have no match. We watched them unlimited times.”

—Ketan Bafna, 55

Growing up, Dharmendra was the hero who lit up our theatres and our imaginations. I never missed a chance to watch his films—whether it was his gentle charm in Satyakam, his playful romance in Seeta Aur Geeta, or his strength in Sholay. For young girls of that era he was the very definition of a dream hero: handsome, kind-eyed, and effortlessly dignified. Even today, his songs and scenes bring the same joy they did decades ago. A legend like him doesn’t just entertain, he becomes a part of your life story.

—Lata Oswal, 62

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