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{{Short description|Indian actor and politician (1935–2025)}}
{{About|the Indian actor|other uses|}}
{{pp|small=yes}}
{{Use Indian English|date=December 2025}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2025}}
{{Infobox officeholder
| name = Dharmendra
| image = Shri Dharmendra Deol on April 04, 2012.jpg
| caption = Dharmendra in 2012
| office = [[Member of Parliament]], [[Lok Sabha]]
| term_start = 13 May 2004
| term_end = 16 May 2009
| predecessor = [[Rameshwar Lal Dudi]]
| successor = [[Arjun Ram Meghwal]]
| constituency = [[Bikaner (Lok Sabha constituency)|Bikaner]]
| birth_name = <!-- See talk page regarding full name dispute -->
| birth_date = {{birth date|1935|12|08|df=y}}
| birth_place = [[Nasrali]], Punjab, British India (present-day [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], India)
| death_date = {{death date and age|2025|11|24|1935|12|08|df=y}}
| death_place = [[Mumbai]], Maharashtra, India
| citizenship = [[British Raj|British Indian]] (1935–1947)<br />[[India]]n (1947–2025)
| other_names = 
| party = [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (2004 - 2009)
| spouse = {{ublist|{{marriage|Prakash Kaur|1954}}|{{marriage|[[Hema Malini]]|1980}}}}
| children = 6, including [[Sunny Deol|Sunny]], [[Bobby Deol|Bobby]] and [[Esha Deol|Esha]]
| relatives = See [[List of Hindi film families#Deol family|Deol family]]
| alma_mater = Ramgarhia College, [[Phagwara]]<br />[[Panjab University, Chandigarh]]
| occupation = {{hlist|Actor|politician}}
| awards = [[Padma Bhushan]] (2012)
| signature = Autograph Dharmendra.svg
| nickname = {{hlist|''He-Man''|''Garam Dharam''}}
| width = 
}}

'''Dharmendra'''{{efn|His full name at birth is disputed between Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol and Dharam Singh Deol. According to his affidavit and ''[[The New York Times]]'' his birth name is Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol.<ref name="Affidavit"/><ref name=NYTobit/> However according to the [[BBC]], his father gave him the name Dharam Singh Deol.<ref name="BBC_24Nov2025"/>}} (8 December 1935 – 24 November 2025) was an Indian actor, producer and politician, primarily known for his work in [[Hindi]] films. He is regarded as one of the greatest and most commercially successful actors in the history of [[Cinema of India|Indian cinema]].<ref>{{Multiref2
| 1 = [https://archive.today/20250502013833/https://photogallery.indiatimes.com/movies/100-yrs-of-indian-cinema/dharmendras-toi-archives-100-years-of-indian-cinema/articleshow/20148582.cms Dharmendra's TOI Archives - 100 Years of Indian Cinema]. ''[[The Times of India]]''. 20 May 2013. Archived from the [https://photogallery.indiatimes.com/movies/100-yrs-of-indian-cinema/dharmendras-toi-archives-100-years-of-indian-cinema/articleshow/20148582.cms original] on 2 May 2025. Retrieved 2 May 2025.
| 2 = [https://archive.today/20250502014141/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/when-dharmendra-was-compared-to-a-hollywood-star-who-he-didn-t-recognise-uski-picture-hi-nahi-dekhi-thi-101642923670930.html When Dharmendra was compared to a Hollywood star who he didn't recognise: 'Uski picture hi nahi dekhi thi']. ''[[Hindustan Times]]''. 23 January 2022. Archived from the [https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/when-dharmendra-was-compared-to-a-hollywood-star-who-he-didn-t-recognise-uski-picture-hi-nahi-dekhi-thi-101642923670930.html original] on 2 May 2025. Retrieved 2 May 2025.
| 3 = [https://archive.today/20250502014513/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-most-handsome-actor-in-bollywood-arjun-rampal/ Dharmendra most handsome actor in Bollywood: Arjun Rampal]. ''[[The Indian Express]]''. 16 June 2015. Archived from [https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-most-handsome-actor-in-bollywood-arjun-rampal/ original] on 2 May 2025. Retrieved 2 May 2025.
| 4 = [https://archive.today/20250502014806/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/madhuri-dixit-dharmendra-the-most-handsome-person-612103 Madhuri Dixit: Dharmendra the most handsome person]. ''[[NDTV]]''. 28 May 2013. Archived from [https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/madhuri-dixit-dharmendra-the-most-handsome-person-612103 original] on 2 May 2025. Retrieved 2 May 2025.
| 5 = [https://archive.today/20250502015059/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-shares-video-of-salman-khan-calling-him-icon-most-beautiful-looking-man-7625556/ Salman Khan calls Dharmendra ‘the most beautiful looking man’]. ''[[The Indian Express]]''. 16 November 2021. Archived from [https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-shares-video-of-salman-khan-calling-him-icon-most-beautiful-looking-man-7625556/ original] on 2 May 2025. Retrieved 2 May 2025.
}}</ref> In a career spanning 65 years, he worked in [[Dharmendra filmography|over 300 films]], holding the record for starring in the highest number of hit films in [[Hindi cinema]].<ref name="BBC_24Nov2025"/>

Born in [[Nasrali]], [[Punjab Province (British India)|Punjab]], Dharmendra made his debut in 1960 with ''[[Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere]]''.<ref>{{cite book |last=Joshi |first=Sumit |title=Bollywood Through Ages |publisher=Best Book Reads |isbn=9781311676696 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=WHQWCgAAQBAJ&q=Arjun+Hingorani&pg=PT65}}</ref> He first gained popularity in the mid-1960s, for films such as ''[[Ayee Milan Ki Bela]]'', ''[[Phool Aur Patthar]]'' and ''[[Aaye Din Bahar Ke]]''. He achieved greater stardom in later years, being dubbed India's "He-Man" for several of his on-screen roles in Hindi films.<ref name="FC_Dec2022">{{cite web |last=Vaidya |first=Saaya |date=8 December 2022 |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/indepth-stories/dharmendra-bollywoods-dreamboat |title=Dharmendra, Bollywood's Dreamboat |archive-date=26 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230126143630/https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/indepth-stories/dharmendra-bollywoods-dreamboat |url-status=live |work=Film Companion |access-date=9 October 2024}}</ref> He consistently starred in several successful Hindi films from the late-1960s to the 1980s, such as ''[[Ankhen (1968 film)|Ankhen]]'', ''[[Shikar (1968 film)|Shikar]]'', ''[[Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke]]'', ''[[Jeevan Mrityu]]'', ''[[Mera Gaon Mera Desh]]'', ''[[Seeta Aur Geeta]]'', ''[[Jugnu (1973 film)|Jugnu]]'', ''[[Yaadon Ki Baaraat]]'', ''[[Dost (1974 film)|Dost]]'', ''[[Sholay]]'', ''[[Pratigya (1975 film)|Pratiggya]]'', ''[[Charas (1976 film)|Charas]]'', ''[[Dharam Veer (film)|Dharam Veer]]'', ''[[Chacha Bhatija]]'', ''[[Ghulami]]'', ''[[Hukumat]]'', ''[[Aag Hi Aag]]'', ''[[Elaan-E-Jung]]'' and ''[[Tahalka]]''.<ref name="Rewinds">{{Cite news|title=Rewind - Sixty Years Of Dharmendra|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6104|work=Box Office India|language=en|date=24 November 2020|archive-date=12 July 2023|access-date=12 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712182139/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6104|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto"/>  Some of his critically-acclaimed performances include ''[[Bandini (film)|Bandini]]'', ''[[Haqeeqat (1964 film)|Haqeeqat]]'', ''[[Anupama (1966 film)|Anupama]]'', ''[[Mamta (1966 film)|Mamta]]'', ''[[Devar]]'', ''[[Satyakam]]'', ''[[Naya Zamana]]'', ''[[Samadhi (1972 film)|Samadhi]]'', ''[[Black Mail (1973 film)|Black Mail]]'', ''[[Resham Ki Dori]]'', ''[[Chupke Chupke (film)|Chupke Chupke]]'', ''[[Dillagi (1978 film)|Dillagi]]'', ''[[The Burning Train]]'', ''[[Ghazab]]'' and ''[[Hathyar (1989 film)|Hathyar]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/entertai/2002/jun/24dinesh.htm|title=All muscle, all heart: Dharmendra|website=www.rediff.com|access-date=12 August 2023|archive-date=4 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230304131225/https://www.rediff.com/entertai/2002/jun/24dinesh.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/dharmendra-turns-88-from-anupama-to-sholay-10-films-that-define-his-timeless-legacy/phool-aur-patthar-1966-action-hero-emerges/slideshow/105832972.cms|title=Dharmendra Turns 88: From 'Anupama' To 'Sholay', 10 Films That Define His Timeless Legacy|date=8 December 2023|access-date=22 April 2024|archive-date=18 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318204258/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/dharmendra-turns-88-from-anupama-to-sholay-10-films-that-define-his-timeless-legacy/phool-aur-patthar-1966-action-hero-emerges/slideshow/105832972.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> 

Beginning in the late 1990s, he appeared in [[character roles]] in several successful and acclaimed films, such as ''[[Life in a... Metro]]'', ''[[Apne]]'', ''[[Johnny Gaddaar]]'', ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana]]'', ''[[Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani]]'' and ''[[Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=1|title=Dharmendra (Filmography)|publisher=Box Office India|access-date=19 March 2024|archive-date=19 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319060248/https://boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=1|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CNN-IBN">{{cite web |title=Review: Johnny Gaddaar is a delicious thriller  |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/review-johnny-gaddaar-is-a-delicious-thriller/49544-8.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090415162514/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/review-johnny-gaddaar-is-a-delicious-thriller/49544-8.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 April 2009|date=29 September 2007 |publisher=[[CNN-IBN]]}}</ref><ref name="BOI_Rocky Aur Rani">{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7962|title=Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani Emerges HIT Due to Overseas|website=Box Office India|access-date=24 August 2023|archive-date=24 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230824075755/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7962|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1997, he received the [[Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award]] for his contributions to [[Hindi cinema|Bollywood]]. He was a member of the [[15th Lok Sabha]] of [[India]], representing the [[Bikaner]] constituency in [[Rajasthan]] from the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP).<ref name="Padma Awards">{{cite web|url=http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=79881|title=Padma Awards|publisher=pib|date=27 January 2013|access-date=16 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524145714/http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=79881|archive-date=24 May 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> The patriarch of the [[List of Hindi film families#Deol family|Deol family]], Dharmendra's private life received much attention, particularly his marriages to Prakash Kaur and actress [[Hema Malini]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sharma |first1=Sampada |date=24 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra married Hema Malini despite being father of four and married to Prakash Kaur; Meena Kumari was 'crazy in love' with him |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-married-hema-malini-father-of-four-prakash-kaur-love-story-meena-kumari-10358647/ |work=The Indian Express |access-date=25 November 2025}}</ref> For his contributions to the arts, the [[Government of India]] honoured him with the [[Padma Bhushan]] in 2012.

==Early life and education==
[[File:Dharmendra with father.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Dharmendra with his father, Kewal Krishan]]
Dharmendra was born in [[Nasrali]], a village in [[Ludhiana district]], [[Punjab Province (British India)|Punjab]], [[British India]], on 8 December 1935.<ref>{{cite news |last=Singh |first=Khushwant |date=18 November 2013 |title=Dharmendra unplugged |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/chandigarh/dharmendra-unplugged/story-MlrFAqdNcseLJAw8TvGWLM.html |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=12 October 2024}}</ref> He was the son of Kewal Krishan<ref name="Affidavit"/> and Satwant Kaur,<ref>{{cite news|title=Dharmendra talks about his mother Satwant Kaur: She wanted me to learn how to manage money|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-talks-about-his-mother-satwant-kaur-she-wanted-me-to-learn-how-to-manage-money-28517|date=21 January 2020|newspaper=The Tribune|archive-date=27 January 2024|access-date=15 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240127215948/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-talks-about-his-mother-satwant-kaur-she-wanted-me-to-learn-how-to-manage-money-28517|url-status=live}}</ref> and was born into a [[Punjabi Hindu]] [[Jat]] family.<ref>{{cite news |date=11 November 2013 |title=Dharmendra pained to see Punjabi girls hitting the bottle |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/dharmendra-pained-to-see-punjabi-girls-hitting-the-bottle/articleshow/25572225.cms |newspaper=Times of India |quote=Bollywood superstar Dharmendra said as a Punjabi he is pained to hear that even girls in the state are now hitting the bottle.}}</ref><ref name="ArabNews_Religion"/><ref name="farm">{{cite news |last1=Kashyap |first1=Archita |title=I am a farmer's son: Dharmendra |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/i-am-a-farmers-son-dharmendra/article7361469.ece |access-date=3 November 2019 |work=The Hindu |date=27 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191103093244/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/i-am-a-farmers-son-dharmendra/article7361469.ece|quote=I am a Jat. Jats love their land and their farms. I spend most of my time in my farmhouse at Lonavla these days.|archive-date=3 November 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> His ancestral village is [[Dangon]] in Ludhiana district.<ref>{{cite web|title=Dharmendra nostalgic on visiting Dangon|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2013/20131106/ldh1.htm#8|date=6 November 2013|work=Ludhiana Tribune|access-date=15 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304110402/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2013/20131106/ldh1.htm#8|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="farm"/> His full name at birth is disputed between Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol,<ref name="Affidavit">{{cite web |title=Affidavit - Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol |url=https://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC1.html |website=ceorajasthan.nic.in |access-date=15 August 2023 |language=hi |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141015101137/https://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC1.html |archive-date=15 October 2014 |date=1996}}</ref><ref name=NYTobit/> Dharam Singh Deol<ref name="BBC_24Nov2025"/> and Dharmendra Singh Deol.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dharmendra Biography: Check Education, Career, Net Worth, and Awards|url=https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/dharmendra-biography-education-career-net-worth-and-awards-1820003963-1|website=Jagranjosh.com|date=24 November 2025|access-date=27 November 2025|language=en}}</ref>

He spent his early life in the village of [[Sahnewal]] and studied at Government Senior Secondary School at [[Lalton Kalan]], Ludhiana district, where his father was the village school headmaster.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sumbly|first=Vimal|title=From Ludhiana to Bikaner in support of Dharmendra|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2004/20040503/ldh1.htm#2|date=2 May 2004|work=Ludhiana Tribune|access-date=16 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303181855/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2004/20040503/ldh1.htm#2|archive-date=3 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> He did his matriculation in [[Phagwara]] in 1952.<ref>{{cite web|title=Affidavit|url=http://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC5.html|work=Chief Electoral Officer, Rajasthan|access-date=16 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304123615/http://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC5.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Career==

===1960–1969: Early career and rise to prominence===

Dharmendra initially travelled to [[Mumbai]] without any clear pathway into the film industry and returned home in [[Punjab]] after failing to secure work, taking up employment with a drilling company. He later reapplied himself to acting after seeing an advertisement for the ''[[Filmfare]]'' magazine talent hunt, for which he returned to Mumbai and was placed second (the winner, Suresh Puri, subsequently faded from public view). Despite this early recognition, he continued to face professional difficulties and reportedly considered leaving Mumbai again until he was persuaded to stay by fellow aspiring actor [[Manoj Kumar]].<ref name=":2">{{cite news |last=Gahlot |first=Deepa |date=24 November 2025 |title=The rugged and tender charms of movie legend Dharmendra (1935–2025) |url=https://scroll.in/reel/1088435/the-rugged-and-tender-charms-of-movie-legend-dharmendra-1935-2025 |access-date=24 November 2025 |work=Scroll.in}}</ref> He later made his film debut in 1960 with [[Arjun Hingorani]]'s [[Romance film|romantic drama]] ''[[Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere]]''.<ref name="Express2">{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Romantic hero|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=1&view=1|work=The Indian Express|access-date=16 August 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article868667.ece|title=My First Break: Dharmendra|author=Ranjana Das Gupta|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=4 November 2010|access-date=8 December 2011|location=Chennai, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111204212734/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article868667.ece|archive-date=4 December 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> The film largely went unnoticed and as a result, did not perform that well at the box office.<ref name="Rewinds"/> He saw his first commercial success in 1961 with [[Ramesh Saigal]]'s ''[[Shola Aur Shabnam (1961 film)|Shola Aur Shabnam]]'' and followed it with hits, such as [[Mohan Kumar (director)|Mohan Kumar]]'s ''[[Anpadh]]'' (1962) and [[Bimal Roy]]'s ''[[Bandini (film)|Bandini]]'' (1963), which won [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=167&catName=MTk2MQ==|title=Box Office 1961|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207075740/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=167&catName=MTk2MQ== |archive-date=7 February 2009 }}</ref><ref name="BOI">{{Cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=168&catName=MTk2Mg==|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922021831/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=168&catName=MTk2Mg%3D%3D|url-status=dead|title=BoxOffice India.com<!-- Bot generated title -->|archivedate=22 September 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=International film prizes: an encyclopedia|author=Tad Bentley Hammer|publisher=Garland|year=1991|isbn=0-8240-7099-2|page=[https://archive.org/details/internationalfil00hamm/page/223 223]|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/internationalfil00hamm/page/223}}</ref>

His breakthrough came in 1964 when he co-starred alongside [[Rajendra Kumar]] and [[Saira Banu]] in another of Mohan Kumar's directional venture ''[[Ayee Milan Ki Bela]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-columns/mgr-and-jayalalitha-in-oru-thai-makkal-1971/article8346001.ece |title=Oru Thai Makkal (1971) Tamil |last=Guy |first=Randor |date=12 March 2016 |work=[[The Hindu]] |access-date=3 March 2019 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=20 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180120235834/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-columns/mgr-and-jayalalitha-in-oru-thai-makkal-1971/article8346001.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> It went on to become a blockbuster and despite playing the antagonist, Dharmendra was noticed by audience and received a nomination in the [[Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor]] category.<ref>{{cite news |title=Dharmendra gets overwhelmed with love from fans on 88th birthday, says 'pyaare pyaare tohfe aye hain' |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-gets-overwhelmed-with-love-from-fans-on-88th-birthday-says-pyaare-pyaare-tohfe-aye-hain-570342 |work=The Tribune |date=9 December 2023 |access-date=19 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417174339/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-gets-overwhelmed-with-love-from-fans-on-88th-birthday-says-pyaare-pyaare-tohfe-aye-hain-570342 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="filmfare">{{Cite web|url = https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners|title = Winners list|date = 2023|access-date = 24 March 2024|archive-date = 4 February 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180204095338/https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners|url-status = live}}</ref> That same year, he played the lead role in [[Chetan Anand (director)|Chetan Anand]]'s [[war|war-drama]] ''[[Haqeeqat (1964 film)|Haqeeqat]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/frames-per-second-music-for-tragedy-120061901220_1.html|title=Frames per Second: Music for tragedy|access-date=18 February 2024|archive-date=18 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240218163901/https://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/frames-per-second-music-for-tragedy-120061901220_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Based on the [[Sino-Indian War]] of 1962, the film proved to be a major critical and commercial success, eventually emerging a superhit with one of its song "[[Kar chale hum fida|Kar Chale Ham Fida]]", a solo by [[Mohammed Rafi]] becoming hugely popular among the masses.<ref>{{cite news |title=FLASHBACK 8 July 2022 (From our issue dated 12 July 1997 |url=https://filminformation.com/featured/flashback-8-july-2022-from-our-issue-dated-12th-july-1997 |work=Film Information |date=8 July 2022 |access-date=19 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417200402/https://filminformation.com/featured/flashback-8-july-2022-from-our-issue-dated-12th-july-1997/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|author=Sujata Dev|title=Mohammed Rafi Voice Of A Nation|date=October 2015|publisher=OM Books International|isbn=978-9380070971}}</ref> In 1965, he had another major success in Ram Maheshwari's romantic drama ''[[Kaajal]]''.<ref name="Boxoffice">{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=171&catName=MTk2NQ== |title=Box office 1965 |publisher=Boxofficeindia.com |access-date=9 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210134027/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=171&catName=MTk2NQ== |archive-date=10 February 2012 }}</ref> The film also had [[Meena Kumari]], [[Raaj Kumar]] and [[Padmini (actress)|Padmini]] in the lead.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2010/11/19/stories/2010111951391100.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131216045542/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2010/11/19/stories/2010111951391100.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 December 2013 |title=Kaajal (1965) |date=19 November 2012 |access-date=9 January 2012 |newspaper= [[The Hindu]] |author=Deepak Mahaan}}</ref>

In 1966, Dharmendra reunited with Kumari for [[O. P. Ralhan]]'s ''[[Phool Aur Patthar]]''. The film topped the box office chart in 1966, becoming a major blockbuster and making him a saleable star.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-remembers-op-ralhan-reveals-why-he-took-off-his-shirt-in-phool-aur-patthar|title=Dharmendra remembers OP Ralhan, reveals why he took off his shirt in 'Phool Aur Patthar'|first=Subhash K.|last=Jha|date=21 August 2020|website=National Herald|access-date=16 December 2024|archive-date=27 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240227212341/https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-remembers-op-ralhan-reveals-why-he-took-off-his-shirt-in-phool-aur-patthar|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Top Actors">{{cite web |title=Top Actors |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219165002/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors |archive-date=19 February 2008 |access-date=24 April 2020 |work=Box Office India}}</ref> He received his first nomination in the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] category for the film.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/366575.cms|title=The Filmfare Awards Nominations – 1966|publisher=[[The Times Group]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040323040505/http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/366575.cms|archive-date=23 March 2004}}</ref> The success of ''Phool Aur Patthar'' was followed by hits in ''[[Mamta (1966 film)|Mamta]]'', ''[[Devar]]'', ''[[Anupama (1966 film)|Anupama]]'' and ''[[Aaye Din Bahar Ke]]'', the same year.<ref name="auto1">{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=5792|title=Akshay Kumar Has A Historic Year|date=8 January 2020|access-date=23 April 2024|archive-date=26 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200226204807/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=5792|url-status=live}}</ref> He was also given a souvenir at the [[14th National Film Awards]] in recognition of his performance in ''Anupama''.<ref>{{cite news|title=Film awards presented|agency=Press Trust of India|publisher=The Indian Express|date=11 October 1967|pages=7}}</ref> The next year, he worked in commercially unsuccessful, but critically acclaimed films like - ''[[Dulhan Ek Raat Ki]]'' opposite [[Nutan]] and ''[[Majhli Didi]]'', ''[[Chandan Ka Palna]]'', both opposite Kumari.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ghosh |first1=Oindrila |title=Bollywood's Long Love Affair with Thomas Hardy's Novels: Adaptations and Cultural Appropriations |url=https://victorianweb.org/authors/hardy/ghosh.html |website=Victorian Web}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/actor-sachin-feted-as-ambassador-of-urdu/articleshow/103546974.cms|title=Actor Sachin feted as 'Ambassador of Urdu'|newspaper=The Times of India |date=10 September 2023}}</ref> Dharmendra hit the big league in 1968 with [[Atma Ram (director)|Atma Ram]]'s [[Mystery film|mystery thriller]] ''[[Shikar (1968 film)|Shikar]]'' and [[Ramanand Sagar]]'s [[spy thriller]] ''[[Ankhen (1968 film)|Ankhen]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title=ShikarUA |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-details/shikar/movieshow/61335835.cms |access-date=6 December 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=7 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207184714/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-details/shikar/movieshow/61335835.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/sunday-times/deep-focus/gun-ho-in-bollywood/articleshow/12312314.cms?pcode=other|title=Gun-ho in Bollywood|newspaper=The Times of India|date=18 March 2012|archive-date=3 March 2024|access-date=3 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303144704/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/sunday-times/deep-focus/gun-ho-in-bollywood/articleshow/12312314.cms?pcode=other|url-status=live}}</ref> Both the films opened to positive audience response and proved to be blockbusters at the box office with the latter being the top–earning film that year.<ref name="Rewinds"/> His other commercially successful releases of 1968 were – [[T. Prakash Rao]]'s drama film ''[[Izzat (1968 film)|Izzat]]'' (in which he played a double role) and Amar Kumar's romantic drama ''[[Mere Hamdam Mere Dost]]''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sharma |first1=Devesh |title=We trace Jayalalithaa's Bollywood debut, Izzat (1968) |url=https://www.filmfare.com/features/we-trace-jayalalithaas-bollywood-debut-izzat-1968_-17233.html |access-date=24 February 2021 |work=Filmfare |date=5 December 2016 }}</ref> The following year, saw the emergence of superstar [[Rajesh Khanna]], who stormed the nation with back-to-back blockbusters in ''[[Aradhana (1969 film)|Aradhana]]'' and ''[[Do Raaste]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=3385|title=Ittefaq And Thor Battle It Out This Week|date=2 November 2017|access-date=2 March 2024|archive-date=22 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240122202707/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=3385|url-status=live}}</ref> With his rise, a number of stars went through career decline.<ref name="froma">{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/314356/from-artistes-brands.html|title=From artistes to brands|date=23 February 2013|access-date=21 January 2024|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131093856/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/314356/from-artistes-brands.html|url-status=live}}</ref> During this phase, Dharmendra and [[Dev Anand]] were the only actors who remained unaffected by Khanna's popularity.<ref name="froma"/> In 1969, he had a superhit in ''[[Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke]]'' with two more successes, ''[[Pyar Hi Pyar]]'' and ''[[Yakeen (1969 film)|Yakeen]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/worth-their-weight-in-gold/ |title=Worth Their Weight in Gold! - Box Office India : India's premier film trade magazine |work=Box Office India : India’s premier film trade magazine |date=November 2011 |access-date=24 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915183938/http://boxofficeindia.co.in/worth-their-weight-in-gold |archive-date=15 September 2017}}</ref> Dharmendra also received immense acclaim for his portrayal of a righteous man in [[Hrishikesh Mukherjee]]'s [[Drama (genre)|social drama]] film ''[[Satyakam]]'', which is widely considered to be his career-best performance by fans as well as critics and went on to win [[National Film Award for Best Hindi Feature Film|National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://iffi.nic.in/Dff2011/Frm17thNFAAward.aspx?PdfName=17NFA.pdf |title=Directorate of Film Festival |publisher=Iffi.nic.in |access-date=23 July 2012 |archive-date=15 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015233600/http://iffi.nic.in/Dff2011/Frm17thNFAAward.aspx?PdfName=17NFA.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|title=Satyakam: Dharmendra's career best role|website=rediff.com|access-date=8 August 2023|archive-date=4 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230304051029/https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>

===1970–1977: Superstardom===

In 1970, Dharmendra delivered four major successes and formed a hit pair with [[Hema Malini]].<ref name="Express2"/> His first release was [[Satyen Bose]]'s [[Crime film|crime drama]] ''[[Jeevan Mrityu]]''. An adaptation of [[Alexandre Dumas]]'s novel ''[[The Count of Monte Cristo]]'', it proved to be major critical and commercial success, eventually emerging a blockbuster and one of the top earners of 1970.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/jeevan-mrityu-1970/article6400941.ece|title=Jeevan Mrityu (1970)|work=[[The Hindu]]|author=Vijay Lokpally|date=11 September 2014|access-date=29 May 2024|archive-date=10 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230410215127/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/jeevan-mrityu-1970/article6400941.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> His next two films, [[Bhappi Sonie]]'s ''[[Tum Haseen Main Jawan]]'' and [[Asit Sen (director)|Asit Sen]]'s ''[[Sharafat]]'', both opposite Malini proved to be superhits at the box office. This was followed by a flop in ''[[Ishq Par Zor Nahin]]'' alongside [[Sadhana Shivdasani|Sadhana]] and a hit in ''[[Kab? Kyoon? Aur Kahan?]]'' with [[Babita]].<ref name="auto1"/> His final release of that year was [[Raj Kapoor]]'s magnum opus ''[[Mera Naam Joker]]'' (in which he played a supporting role). Although the film was a disaster at the time of release, it attained cult status in later years, with many critics hailing it as one of the best Indian films of all time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/Consumer/j0uwEr1EQbbKoB83ASpASK/Ten-bigbudget-Bollywood-boxoffice-disasters.html|title=Ten big-budget Bollywood box-office disasters|first=Lata|last=Jha|date=28 September 2015|website=[[Live Mint]]|access-date=30 May 2020|archive-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127003908/https://www.livemint.com/Consumer/j0uwEr1EQbbKoB83ASpASK/Ten-bigbudget-Bollywood-boxoffice-disasters.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/cult-hindi-films-that-flopped/photostory/27856115.cms|title=Cult Hindi films that flopped|website=The Times of India|archive-date=18 January 2024|access-date=18 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240118105510/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/cult-hindi-films-that-flopped/photostory/27856115.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1971, Dharmendra starred in [[Raj Khosla]]'s [[Action film|action drama]] ''[[Mera Gaon Mera Desh]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mera-gaon-mera-desh|title=Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971)|website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|access-date=16 March 2024|archive-date=16 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316211112/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mera-gaon-mera-desh|url-status=live}}</ref> The film went on to become an ''All Time Blockbuster'' and established his image of an action hero.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7382|title=An Action Hero Is Very Dull - Drishyam 2 Is One Horse Race|date=2 December 2022}}</ref> The large success of this film also made the industry shift from romantic to action films.<ref name="Rewinds"/> Dharmendra received his second nomination in the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] category for his performance in ''Mera Gaon Mera Desh''.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://indiancine.ma/documents/QFY/3 |title=Starlights of the next issue |date=24 March 1972 |magazine=[[Filmfare]] |last=Karanjia |first=B. K. |author-link=B. K. Karanjia |volume=21 |page=7 |issue=6 |access-date=2 June 2021 |archive-date=2 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602214109/https://indiancine.ma/documents/QFY/3 |url-status=live }}</ref> His success continued in the following year with another massive blockbuster in ''[[Seeta Aur Geeta]]'', a superhit in ''[[Raja Jani]]'' and a hit film, ''[[Samadhi (1972 film)|Samadhi]]'' to go with the major grossers.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6097|date=8 November 2020|title=Rewind - Thirty Five Years of Mard|access-date=27 February 2024|archive-date=8 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108093055/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6097|url-status=live}}</ref> The mass hysteria created by ''Mera Gaon Mera Desh'' in 1971, followed by back-to-back hits with ''Seeta Aur Geeta'', ''Raja Jani'' and ''Samadhi'' in 1972 took Dharmendra to number one position among his contemporaries, thus making him a "superstar".<ref>{{citation|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=2882|title=Vinod Khanna Passes Away|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|date=27 April 2017|access-date=12 August 2024|archive-date=8 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008201610/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=2882|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Top Actors" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7555|title=Pathaan And The SUPERSTARS Of Indian Cinema|date=8 February 2023|access-date=29 July 2024|archive-date=29 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729094616/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7555|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 April 2013 |title=100 Years of Indian Cinema: The 100 greatest Indian films of all time |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/photogallery/13200-19.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425234438/http://ibnlive.in.com/photogallery/13200-19.html |archive-date=25 April 2013 |access-date=12 February 2014 |website=[[IBN Live]]}}</ref>

1973 was the best year of Dharmendra's career with many successes.<ref name="R1973"/> His first release, which was [[A. Bhimsingh]]'s [[Crime film|action crime]] film ''[[Loafer (1973 film)|Loafer]],'' emerged a superhit with its songs, including "Aaj Mausam Bada Be-Imaan", "Main Tere Ishq Mein", "Koi Shehri Babu" becoming immensely popular among the masses and making its soundtrack one of the best-selling Hindi film albums of the 1970s.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sebastian |first=Pradeep |date=16 August 2002 |title=Masala vs. genre |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2002/08/16/stories/2002081600920300.htm |work=The Hindu |access-date=29 October 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030704153626/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2002/08/16/stories/2002081600920300.htm |archive-date=4 July 2003 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/special/ninty-unforgettable-asha-bhosle-songs/20180908.htm|title=90 UNFORGETTABLE Asha Bhosle Songs|date=8 September 2023|access-date=16 March 2024|archive-date=16 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316211113/https://m.rediff.com/movies/special/ninty-unforgettable-asha-bhosle-songs/20180908.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> This was followed by [[Mystery film|mystery thriller]] ''[[Jheel Ke Us Paar]]'' and [[Action Film|action drama]] ''[[Jugnu (1973 film)|Jugnu]]''. While ''Jheel Ke Us Paar'' was a hit, the latter proved to be a blockbuster in India as well as Soviet Union, eventually taking second spot at the box office in 1973.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7561|title=Worldwide Gross - The Russian And Chinese Factor|date=11 February 2023}}</ref> Owing to its huge success, ''Jugnu'' was also remade in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Telugu language|Telugu]] as ''[[Guru (1980 film)|Guru]]'' (1980).<ref>{{Cite web|date=12 August 2015|title=Sridevi: 5 times the actress bowled us with her performance|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/sridevi-5-times-the-actress-bowled-us-with-her-performance/etphotostory/48450778.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424051532/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/sridevi-5-times-the-actress-bowled-us-with-her-performance/etphotostory/48450778.cms|archive-date=24 April 2024|access-date=14 December 2020|website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> His next two releases were - [[Ravikant Nagaich]]'s spy thriller ''[[Keemat (1973 film)|Keemat]]'' and [[Adurthi Subba Rao]]'s light-hearted drama film ''[[Jwaar Bhata]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 September 2016 |title=Keemat (1973) |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/Keemat-1973/article14993419.ece |access-date=22 March 2022 |archive-date=28 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228034808/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/Keemat-1973/article14993419.ece |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Nadadhur |first1=Srivathsan |title=Daagudu Moothalu: The 'hidden' treasures unveiled |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/daagudu-moothalu-the-hidden-treasures-unveiled/article7561719.ece |access-date=8 September 2020 |work=The Hindu |date=20 August 2015 |archive-date=6 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206140748/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/daagudu-moothalu-the-hidden-treasures-unveiled/article7561719.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Both the films received mixed critical reception, but emerged commercially successful.<ref name="R1973"/> Towards the end of the year, Dharmendra appeared in ''[[Yaadon Ki Baaraat]]'', ''[[Blackmail (1973 film)|Black Mail]]'' and ''[[Kahani Kismat Ki]]''. ''Yaadon Ki Baaraat'', directed by [[Nasir Hussain]] and written by [[Salim-Javed]] is widely identified as the first [[masala film]] of [[Indian cinema]] and proved to be another blockbuster for the actor as well as the second best-selling [[Hindi film music|Bollywood]] album of the 1970s.<ref>{{cite news|date=30 March 2017|title=How film-maker Nasir Husain started the trend for Bollywood masala films|work=[[Hindustan Times]]|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/how-film-maker-nasir-husain-created-the-prototype-for-bollywood-masala-films/story-ckL6zPLHJFDYoupjFBtbfN.html|access-date=20 October 2017|archive-date=5 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190505013953/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/how-film-maker-nasir-husain-created-the-prototype-for-bollywood-masala-films/story-ckL6zPLHJFDYoupjFBtbfN.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Rewinds"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Music Hits 1970-1979|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=282&catName=MTk3MC0xOTc5|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|date=5 February 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100205042855/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=282&catName=MTk3MC0xOTc5 | archive-date=5 February 2010 }}</ref> On the other hand, [[Vijay Anand (filmmaker)|Vijay Anand]]'s romantic thriller ''Black Mail'' was a critical and commercial failure, but reception later improved, with many calling it one of Anand's most underrated works.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/Black-Mail-1973/article15006250.ece|title=Black Mail (1973)|first=Anuj|last=Kumar|date=30 September 2016|access-date=17 November 2021|website=The Hindu|archive-date=17 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117130920/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/Black-Mail-1973/article15006250.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> The song "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas" filmed on Dharmendra and Raakhee was a chartbuster and remains popular in modern culture.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ndtv.in/bollywood/song-pal-pal-dil-ke-paas-from-film-blackmail-was-shot-without-recording-dharmendra-rakhee-movie-4523782|title=बिना रिकॉर्डिंग के कैसे शूट हुआ फिल्म ब्लैक मेल का सुपरहिट गाना 'पल पल दिल के पास तुम रहती हो', किस्सा है बेहद दिलचस्प|date=28 October 2023}}</ref> His final release of the year, Arjun Hingorani's actioner ''Kahani Kismat Ki'' continued his dream run and emerged a superhit at the box office.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/kahani-kismat-ki-1973/article8026032.ece|title=Kahani Kismat Ki (1973)|newspaper=The Hindu|date=24 December 2015|archive-date=16 March 2024|access-date=16 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316211856/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/kahani-kismat-ki-1973/article8026032.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> The following year, Dharmendra added one more blockbuster in his kitty with [[Dulal Guha]]'s social drama ''[[Dost (1974 film)|Dost]]'' co-starring [[Shatrughan Sinha]] and Hema Malini.<ref name="boxofficeindia.com">{{Cite web |title=Rewind - Greatest Indian Film Sholay Is 43 Years Old |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4183|publisher=Box Office India}}</ref> The huge box office success of ''Dost'' was followed by moderate successes in ''[[Patthar Aur Payal]]'' and ''[[Resham Ki Dori]]''. For his performance in the latter, Dharmendra received his fourth and final nomination in the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] category.<ref name="filmfare"/>

[[The Emergency (India)|The 1975 Emergency]] had angered the public, and this helped films featuring the lead character revolting against corruption and establishment become successes. The shift from romantic and social movies to action-oriented multi-starrers changed the box office. The year saw the rise of another superstar, [[Amitabh Bachchan]], but Dharmendra remained rock-steady and continued to deliver huge hits.<ref name="FC_Dec2022"/>

In 1975, Dharmendra appeared alongside Bachchan in two films. The first was Mukherjee's light-hearted comedy ''[[Chupke Chupke (film)|Chupke Chupke]]''.<ref name="GulzarNihalani2003">{{cite book|author1=Gulzar|author2=Govind Nihalani|author3=Saibal Chatterjee|title=Encyclopaedia of Hindi Cinema|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8y8vN9A14nkC&pg=PT371|access-date=29 October 2012|year=2003|publisher=Popular Prakashan|isbn=978-81-7991-066-5|pages=371–}}</ref> It received positive response from critics and went on to become a hit at the box office.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/hrishikesh-mukherjee-chupke-chupke-subtle-antidote-to-angry-young-man-era-7915586/|title=Hrishikesh Mukherjee's Chupke Chupke was the subtle antidote to the 'angry young man' era; a balance we have forgotten today|date=14 May 2022}}</ref> The second was [[Ramesh Sippy]]'s actioner ''[[Sholay]]''.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|pp=22–28}} It released on 15 August 1975, [[Independence Day (India)|Indian Independence Day]], in Bombay. Due to lackluster reviews and a lack of effective visual marketing tools, it saw poor financial returns in its first two weeks. However, from the third week onward, viewership picked up owing to positive [[word of mouth]].{{sfn|Chopra|2000|p=169}} During the initial slow period, the director and writer considered re-shooting some scenes so that Amitabh Bachchan's character would not die. When business picked up, they abandoned this idea.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|p=164}} After additionally releasing a soundtrack containing dialogue snippets,{{sfn|Banerjea|2005|pp=177–179}} ''Sholay'' soon became an "overnight sensation".<ref name="ndtv">{{Cite web |date=14 August 2010 |title=35 years on, the Sholay fire still burns |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/35-years-on-the-sholay-fire-still-burns-44425 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130612074406/http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/35-years-on-the-sholay-fire-still-burns-44425 |archive-date=12 June 2013 |access-date=12 April 2013 |publisher=[[NDTV]]}}</ref> The film was then released in other distribution zones such as Delhi, [[Uttar Pradesh]], [[West Bengal|Bengal]], and [[Hyderabad district, India|Hyderabad]] on 11 October 1975.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|p=173}} It became the highest-grossing Hindi-language film of 1975, and film ranking website [[Box Office India]] has given the film a verdict of ''All Time Blockbuster''.<ref name="boxofficeindia.com"/> ''Sholay'' went on to earn a still-standing record of 60 golden jubilees{{efn|A golden jubilee means that a film has completed 50 consecutive weeks of showing in a single theatre.}} across India,<ref name="ndtv" /> and was the first film in India to celebrate a silver jubilee{{efn|A silver jubilee means that a film has completed 25 consecutive weeks of showing in a single theatre.}} at over 100 theatres.<ref name="ndtv" /> It was shown continuously at Bombay's Minerva Theatre for over five years and in Kolkata's [[Jyoti Cinema (Kolkata)|Jyoti Cinema]] for almost two years.<ref name="nyt">{{cite news|first=Kevin|last=Kelly|title=Scan This Book!|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/14/magazine/14publishing.html|work=[[New York Times Magazine]]|date=14 May 2006|access-date=7 March 2008|archive-date=10 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201210150624/https://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/14/magazine/14publishing.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6042|title=All Time Longest Runners In Kolkata: Sholay 2nd - HAHK 4th|access-date=15 February 2024|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215180207/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6042|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Sholay'' was the Indian film with the longest theatrical run until ''[[Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge]]'' (1995) broke its record of 286 weeks in 2001.{{sfn|Elliott|Payne|Ploesch|2007 |p=54}}<ref name="telegraph">{{Cite news |date=3 February 2013 |title=900 not out! |work=[[The Telegraph (Calcutta)|The Telegraph]] |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1130203/jsp/7days/story_16515999.jsp |url-status=dead |access-date=11 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304225327/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130203/jsp/7days/story_16515999.jsp |archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref>

[[File:Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in 2016.jpg|thumb|Dharmendra and [[Amitabh Bachchan|Bachchan]] starrer ''Sholay'' (1975) recorded an estimated 15-18 crore footfalls, making it the highest grossing Indian film in terms of audience attendance to date.]]

Before the end of year, he delivered another huge success in ''[[Pratigya (1975 film)|Pratiggya]]''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/zakhmee-1975/article5809755.ece|title=Zakhmee (1975)|last=Malhotra|first=Aps|newspaper=The Hindu|date=20 March 2014|via=www.thehindu.com|archive-date=24 October 2023|access-date=21 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231024134010/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/zakhmee-1975/article5809755.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> The film along with its strong action scenes also had a significant comic track in the form of "[[slapstick]]" comedy which led to it being referred as a "masterpiece in comedy".<ref name="Raj2009">{{cite book|author=Ashok Raj|title=Hero Vol.2|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2wo9BAAAQBAJ&pg=PT80|access-date=18 September 2014|date=1 November 2009|publisher=Hay House, Inc|isbn=978-93-81398-03-6|pages=80–}}</ref><ref name="IndiaPerspectives">{{cite book|title=India Perspectives|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UuhtAAAAMAAJ|access-date=18 September 2014|year=2005|publisher=PTI for the Ministry of External Affairs}}</ref> In 1976, Dharmendra reunited with Ramanand Sagar for the action thriller ''[[Charas (1976 film)|Charas]]''. Set against the backdrop of the [[Expulsion of Asians from Uganda|expulsion of Indian community from Uganda]] by its dictator [[Idi Amin]] in 1972, it opened to bumper response all over the nation and emerged a superhit at the box office.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://hindi.news18.com/photogallery/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-hema-malini-second-blockbuster-baghavat-film-was-made-on-the-lines-of-superhit-charas-ramanand-sagar-was-earned-shockingly-a-lot-of-money-by-3-films-7999673.html|title=सुपरहिट 'चरस' के तर्ज पर बनी, धर्मेंद्र-हेमा मालिनी की दूसरी फिल्म, लगातार 3 हिट से रामानंद सागर ने कूटे खूब पैसे|date=25 January 2024}}</ref> His other release of the year, [[M. A. Thirumugam]]'s family drama film ''[[Maa (1976 film)|Maa]]'' was thrashed by critics, but still went on to become a success.<ref>{{Cite book |title=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |title-link=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |publisher=[[Penguin Books]] |year=2014 |isbn=978-0-14-342111-5 |location=Delhi |pages=98 |author-link=Naman Ramachandran |orig-date=2012}}</ref> The year 1977 proved to be a big one for Dharmendra with an ''All Time Blockbuster'' in [[Manmohan Desai]]'s [[Action Film|action drama]] ''[[Dharam Veer (film)|Dharam Veer]]'', a superhit in another of Desai's [[Masala film|masala]] film ''[[Chacha Bhatija]]'', followed by two more successful films in Arjun Hingorani's [[Thriller (genre)|mystery thriller]] ''[[Khel Khilari Ka]]'' and Pramod Chakravorty's action comedy ''[[Dream Girl (1977 film)|Dream Girl]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7993|title=Top Ten All Time Bihar - Gadar 2 Smashes All RECORDS|date=6 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/recentpost/flashback-1977-trade-informa-2531|title=Flashback 1977 - Trade Guide Classification|date=8 August 2024|access-date=16 August 2024|archive-date=14 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814072717/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/recentpost/flashback-1977-trade-informa-2531|url-status=dead}}</ref> In the United Kingdom, ''Dharam Veer'' had 23 shows in 5 cities. Driven by the success of Rafi's songs, the film took a record initial of £50,000 in the UK, equivalent to {{INRConvert|{{#expr:50000*(1000/{{To USD|1000|IND|year=1977}}) round -1}}|year=1977|mode=historical}}.<ref>{{cite news |title=United Kingdom Evolution - £100k To £4 Million Of Pathaan |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7602 |access-date=2 March 2023 |work=[[Box Office India]] |archive-date=2 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302113326/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7602 |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, the film sold 32 million tickets in the Soviet Union.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dharam Veer |url=https://www.kinopoisk.ru/film/97001/ |access-date=15 August 2023 |website=[[KinoPoisk]] |language=ru}}</ref>

===1978–1997: Continued success and minor setbacks===

Post-1977, the quality of Dharmendra's films dropped and so the number of huge grossers, but his initial draw remained intact, owing to which the flow of successes continued till the 1990s.<ref name="Rewinds"/> In 1978, he had four major releases which included ''[[Shalimar (1978 film)|Shalimar]]'', ''[[Azaad (1978 film)|Azaad]]'', ''[[Dillagi (1978 film)|Dillagi]]'' and ''[[Phandebaaz]]''. Out of these, ''Shalimar'' and ''Phandebaaz'' were critical and commercial failures while ''Azaad'' and ''Dillagi'', both co-starring Malini emerged successful, especially the former which was a superhit as well as [[List of Hindi films of 1978|fourth highest-grossing film of the year]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8936|title=Game Changer Dull First Week - Emergency and Azaad Opening|date=17 January 2024}}</ref> The following year, he added one more superhit in his kitty with Mohan Sehgal's ''[[Kartavya (1979 film)|Kartavya]]'' and a successful film with Dulal Guha's ''[[Dil Kaa Heera]]''.<ref name=TG1979>{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1979-Classificaiton.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification - 1979|access-date=28 August 2024|archive-date=27 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240827205309/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1979-Classificaiton.jpg|url-status=dead}}</ref> 

Dharmendra began the 1980s with [[Ravi Chopra]]'s big-budget [[Action fiction|action thriller]] ''[[The Burning Train]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Saxena |first=Poonam |date=27 July 2023 |title=Flooded cities, burning trains: Poonam Saxena on the timeless lure of cinematic disaster |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/art-culture/the-burning-train-1980-a-disaster-film-of-its-time-documenting-film-history-and-trivia-for-nostalgia-101687610534404.html |website=[[Hindustan Times]] |quote=The story goes that BR Chopra's son Ravi Chopra saw The Towering Inferno (1974) while on a trip abroad and was very taken up with the story of a fire that engulfs the world's tallest skyscraper on its opening night. |access-date=10 September 2024 |archive-date=2 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240702052259/https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/art-culture/the-burning-train-1980-a-disaster-film-of-its-time-documenting-film-history-and-trivia-for-nostalgia-101687610534404.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The film co-starring [[Jeetendra]], [[Vinod Khanna]], Hema Malini and [[Parveen Babi]] didn't live up to the expectations and ended up as an average fare, however gained cult status in later years.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/heres-why-the-burning-train-continues-to-be-the-coolest-disaster-thriller-film-522205.html|title=Here's Why The Burning Train Continues To Be The Coolest Disaster Thriller Film Till Date|date=7 September 2020|access-date=18 January 2024|archive-date=18 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240118204915/https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/heres-why-the-burning-train-continues-to-be-the-coolest-disaster-thriller-film-522205.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His next two releases were - ''[[Adventures of Ali-Baba and the Forty Thieves (film)|Alibaba Aur 40 Chor]]'' and ''[[Ram Balram]]''. While the former was moderately successful, the latter in which he reunited with Bachchan proved to be a box office hit.<ref name=FI1980>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1980-Classification.jpg|title=Summing Up 1980|website=www.bobbytalkscinema.com|access-date=13 October 2024|archive-date=29 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829210821/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1980-Classification.jpg|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 1981, he had a superhit in ''[[Kaatilon Ke Kaatil]]'', but other releases, such as ''[[Aas Paas]]'' and ''[[Krodhi]]'' failed to leave a mark while [[Brij Sadanah]]'s big-budget actioner ''[[Professor Pyarelal]]'' ended up as an average grosser.<ref>{{cite news |date=1 May 2020 |title=The Best Films Of Rishi Kapoor - Bobby Has Historic Numbers |publisher=boxofficeindia.com |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6050 |access-date=1 May 2020 |archive-date=1 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501110812/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6050 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/40-years-of-jackie-shroff-starrer-hero-director-subhash-ghai-hints-at-sequel-101702630889625.html|title=40 years of Jackie Shroff-starrer Hero: Director Subhash Ghai hints at sequel|work=Hindustan Times |date=18 December 2023}}</ref> This changed in 1982 as five of his films emerged commercial successes, these were - ''[[Samraat (film)|Samraat]]'', ''[[Rajput (film)|Rajput]]'', ''[[Ghazab]]'', ''[[Baghavat]]'' and ''[[Badle Ki Aag]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1982-Classification.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification 1982|access-date=10 September 2024|archive-date=8 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908141622/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1982-Classification.jpg|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 1983, Dharmendra delivered a hit in [[Rajkumar Kohli]]'s comedy film ''[[Naukar Biwi Ka]]'', followed by another success, ''[[Qayamat (1983 film)|Qayamat]]'', but his most anticipated film of that year, [[Kamal Amrohi]]'s period biographical film ''[[Razia Sultan (film)|Razia Sultan]]'' was a box office [[Box-office bomb|disaster]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1983-Classification.jpg|title=Film Informatiom Classification 1983|access-date=17 September 2024|archive-date=8 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908124607/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1983-Classification.jpg|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kamal Amrohi's dream film Razia Sultan bombs at the box-office |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/films/story/19831015-kamal-amrohi-dream-film-razia-sultan-bombs-at-the-box-office-771082-2013-07-17 |last=Kapoor |first=Sunil Sethi Coomi |website=[[India Today]] |date=17 July 2013 |access-date=21 May 2020 |archive-date=17 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211217041352/https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/films/story/19831015-kamal-amrohi-dream-film-razia-sultan-bombs-at-the-box-office-771082-2013-07-17 |url-status=live }}</ref> The next year, he had seven releases, out of which ''[[Baazi (1984 film)|Baazi]]'', ''[[Jagir (film)|Jagir]]'', ''[[Jeene Nahi Doonga]]'' and ''[[Dharm Aur Qanoon]]'' did reasonable business, but rest were critical and commercial failures.<ref name="FI1984">{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Information-1984-Classifica.jpg|title=FI Classification (1984)|accessdate=24 November 2025}}{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref> In 1985, Dharmendra starred in [[J. P. Dutta]]'s action drama film ''[[Ghulami]]'' which also had [[Mithun Chakraborty]], [[Naseeruddin Shah]], [[Reena Roy]] and [[Smita Patil]] in the lead. The film opened to positive reviews from critics and emerged a superhit as well as one of the top five highest-earners of that year.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1985-Classification.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification 1985|accessdate=24 November 2025}}{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref> Its song, "Zeehale Muskin Makun ba-Ranjish", sung by [[Lata Mangeshkar]] and [[Shabbir Kumar]] was a chartbuster and was featured in the year-end annual list of [[Binaca Geetmala]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.keepalivebollywood.com/binacageetmala/search-detail/page=2|title=Binaca Geetmala (1985)}}</ref> In 1986, he appeared in biggies ''[[Main Balwan]]'' and ''[[Sultanat]]'', both of which did not perform well at the box office.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-Classification-1986.jpg|title=Film Information Classification (1986)|accessdate=24 November 2025}}{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref>

Dharmendra returned to the big league in 1987 by delivering eight successful films in the year. His first two releases were - Rajkumar Kohli's and [[Raj N. Sippy]]'s actioners ''[[Insaniyat Ke Dushman]]'' and ''[[Loha (1987 film)|Loha]]'', respectively, both of which proved to be box office hits.<ref name=TG1987>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/TG-Classification-1987.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification 1987|accessdate=24 November 2025}}{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref> He then appeared in ''[[Dadagiri (film)|Dadagiri]]'', ''[[Hukumat]]'' and ''[[Aag Hi Aag]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Aag Hi Aag |website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/aag_hi_aag_1987}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|author=Kanwar, Rachna |title=25 Must See Bollywood Movies |date=3 October 2005 |url=http://movies.indiatimes.com/Special_Features/25_Must_See_Bollywood_Movies/articleshow/msid-1250837,curpg-10.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071015033756/http://movies.indiatimes.com/Special_Features/25_Must_See_Bollywood_Movies/articleshow/msid-1250837%2Ccurpg-10.cms |url-status=dead |archive-date=15 October 2007 |publisher=Indiatimes movies |accessdate=8 November 2010 }}</ref>  While ''Dadagiri'' was an average fare, the latter two went on to become superhits with ''Hukumat'' emerging as the [[List of Hindi films of 1987|highest-grossing film of the year]].<ref name=TG1987/> This was followed by [[T. Rama Rao]]'s hit venture ''[[Watan Ke Rakhwale]]'' and two more successful films, ''[[Insaaf Kaun Karega]]'' with [[Rajinikanth]] and ''[[Insaf Ki Pukar]]'', co-starring Jeetendra.<ref name=TG1987/> His other huge hits of the decade, include ''[[Khatron Ke Khiladi (1988 film)|Khatron Ke Khiladi]]'' (1988) and ''[[Elaan-E-Jung]]'' (1989).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theprint.in/theprint-profile/before-rajamouli-there-was-t-rama-rao-he-brought-madras-movies-to-bollywood/1528017/|title=Before Rajamouli, there was T Rama Rao. He brought 'Madras' movies to Bollywood|website=[[ThePrint]] |date=20 April 2023}}</ref><ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6251|title=Rewind - Twenty Years Of Gadar|date=15 June 2021|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119053002/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6251|url-status=live}}</ref> 

With the advent of the 1990s, Dharmendra's star power began to wane. From 1990 to 1992, his successful films included ''[[Sridevi|Naakabandi]]'' (1990), ''[[Veeru Dada]]'' (1990), ''[[Humse Na Takrana]]'' (1990), ''[[Kohraam]]'' (1991) and ''[[Tahalka]]'' (1992), which also proved to be his final hit as a lead actor.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/FI-Classification-1990.jpg|title=FI Classification (1990)|accessdate=24 November 2025}}{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/TG-1991-Classifications-P1.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification (1991)|accessdate=24 November 2025}}{{Dead link|date=November 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref><ref name="auto"/> In 1993, he appeared in J. P. Dutta's ensemble action film ''[[Kshatriya (film)|Kshatriya]]'' co-starring [[Sunil Dutt]], [[Vinod Khanna]], [[Rakhee Gulzar]], [[Sanjay Dutt]], [[Sunny Deol]], [[Meenakshi Seshadri]], [[Raveena Tandon]] and [[Divya Bharti]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kshatriya|title=Kshatriya &#124; Rotten Tomatoes|website=www.rottentomatoes.com|access-date=24 April 2024|archive-date=22 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240422221801/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kshatriya|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Kshatriya'' took a record opening, but collections dropped after it was pulled from theatres owing to Dutt's involvement in the [[1993 Bombay bombings]] and it ended up as a flop.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4419|title=Opening Day Records Since 1990 - 34 Films|date=9 November 2019|access-date=8 December 2024|archive-date=28 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328143742/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4419|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/movies/why-1993-multi-starrer-film-kshatriya-flopped-because-of-sanjay-dutt-8732108.html|title=Why 1993 Multi-starrer Film Kshatriya Flopped Because Of Sanjay Dutt|date=8 January 2024|access-date=2 February 2024|archive-date=16 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240616051736/https://www.news18.com/movies/why-1993-multi-starrer-film-kshatriya-flopped-because-of-sanjay-dutt-8732108.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the mid-1990s, he delivered average fares in ''[[Policewala Gunda]]'' (1995) and ''[[Mafia (1996 film)|Mafia]]'' (1996), but his other releases, including biggies, such as ''[[Maidan-E-Jung]]'' (1995) and ''[[Return of Jewel Thief]]'' (1996) proved to be box office failures.<ref>{{cite web |title=Policewala Gunda |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2976 |website=Box Office India |access-date=25 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Mafia |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2798 |website=Box Office India |access-date=25 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=3004|title=Maidan-E-Jung – Movie|publisher=[[Box Office India]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2744|title=Return Of Jewel Thief – Movie|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|access-date=18 December 2023|archive-date=7 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407052234/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2744|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1997, Dharmendra received the [[Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award]]. While accepting the award from [[Dilip Kumar]] and his wife [[Saira Banu]], he became emotional and remarked that he had never won the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] despite having worked in so many successful films and nearly a hundred popular films.<ref>{{cite web|title=The real stars of Bollywood|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2004/mar/11corner.htm|publisher=Rediff|access-date=23 December 2010|date=11 March 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110310070326/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2004/mar/11corner.htm|archive-date=10 March 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> Speaking on this occasion [[Dilip Kumar]] commented, "Whenever I get to meet with God Almighty, I will set before him my only complaint – why did you not make me as handsome as Dharmendra?".<ref>{{cite web|title=I was the Salman Khan of my days: Dharmendra|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/i-was-the-salman-khan-of-my-days-dharmendra/495016/0|work=The Financial Express|access-date=23 December 2010|date=28 July 2009|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011132933/https://www.financialexpress.com/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== 1998–2025: Shift to character roles ===

Since the late 1990s, after what has been termed his 'gold age', Dharmendra appeared in character roles. His first film in such a role was [[Sohail Khan]]'s [[romantic comedy]] ''[[Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998 film)|Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya]]'' (1998), co-starring [[Salman Khan]], [[Kajol]] and [[Arbaaz Khan]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/pyaar-kiya-to-darna-kya|title=Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998)|website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|access-date=3 May 2024|archive-date=3 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240503204408/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/pyaar-kiya-to-darna-kya|url-status=live}}</ref> The film received positive reviews from critics and became a superhit at the box office.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2583|title=Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya – Movie|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|access-date=16 August 2023|archive-date=1 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801111948/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2583|url-status=live}}</ref>

His first two major releases of the new decade were ''[[Kaise Kahoon Ke... Pyaar Hai]]'' (2003) and ''[[Kis Kis Ki Kismat]]'' (2004), both of which were box office failures.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=573|title=KAISE KAHOON KE... PYAAR HAI|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119193450/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=573|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1790|title=KIS KIS KI KISMET|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119193451/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1790|url-status=live}}</ref> After this, Dharmendra went on a hiatus for a brief period and returned with three films in 2007. These were - [[Anurag Basu]]'s drama film ''[[Life in a... Metro]]'', [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]]'s [[Sports film|sports drama]] ''[[Apne]]'' and [[Sriram Raghavan]]'s [[Neo-noir|neo-noir thriller]] ''[[Johnny Gaddaar]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/indian-movie-remakes-that-just-didn-t-work-762327.html|title = Indian movie remakes that just didn't work|date = 18 September 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/apne|title=Apne (2007)|website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|access-date=18 February 2024|archive-date=18 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240218162916/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/apne|url-status=live}}</ref> Both, ''Life in a... Metro'' and ''Apne'' proved to be critical and commercial successes.<ref name="Life In A Metro - Movie">{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=348|title=Life In A Metro - Movie|publisher=Box Office India}}</ref><ref name="boxofficeindia.com-Apne">{{Cite web |title=Apne – Movie – Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=227 |website=boxofficeindia.com |access-date=1 June 2021 |archive-date=16 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516021701/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=227|url-status=live}}</ref> On the other hand, ''Johnny Gaddaar'', despite failing at the box office, received praise from critics and attained cult status in later years.<ref name="CNN-IBN"/><ref>{{cite news|title=Movie reviews: Johnny Ghaddar|url=http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Movie-reviews/222703/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130122134754/http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Movie-reviews/222703/|url-status=dead|archive-date=22 January 2013|publisher=[[Indian Express]]|date=30 September 2007}}</ref> The same year, he made a guest appearance in the song "Deewangi Deewangi" from [[Farah Khan]]'s blockbuster [[Reincarnation|reincarnation drama]] ''[[Om Shanti Om]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/interviews/10-years-of-om-shanti-om-farah-khan-interview-with-anupama-chopra|title=10 Years of Om Shanti Om with Farah Khan|date=9 November 2017|access-date=18 September 2024|archive-date=20 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120212159/https://www.filmcompanion.in/interviews/10-years-of-om-shanti-om-farah-khan-interview-with-anupama-chopra|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2011, Dharmendra starred in ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana]]'' and ''[[Tell Me O Kkhuda]]''.<ref>{{cite news |title=Yamla Pagla Deewana |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/previews/Yamla-Pagla-Deewana/articleshow/7082416.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104043925/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-12-11/bollywood/28257409_1_bobby-deol-sunny-deol-yamla-pagla-deewana |url-status=live |archive-date=4 November 2012 |access-date=13 December 2010 |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=11 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-10-06/news-interviews/28068118_1_hema-malini-s-pics-mayur-puri-vinod-khanna |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021095425/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-10-06/news-interviews/28068118_1_hema-malini-s-pics-mayur-puri-vinod-khanna |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 October 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Hema remaking Mama Mia? |date=6 October 2009}}</ref> While the latter was a commercial disaster, ''Yamla Pagla Deewana'' performed very well and emerged a box office hit.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=850|title=Tell Me O Kkhuda|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119161937/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=850|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=35|title=Yamla Pagla Deewana - Movie |publisher=Box Office India}}</ref> He then appeared in sequels to ''Yamla Pagla Deewana'', 
''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana 2]]'' (2013) and ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se]]'' (2018), but unlike the first film, both the sequels received poor audience response.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=1|title=Dharmendra (Filmography)|access-date=31 January 2024|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131141712/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=1|url-status=live}}</ref>
[[File:Dharam.jpg|thumb|Dharmendra in 2023]]
In 2023, he appeared in [[Karan Johar]]'s ensemble [[family drama]] ''[[Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani]]''. The film opened to a polarising response from reviewers, but grossed over {{INRConvert|3.5|b|year=2023}} worldwide and proved to be a hit as well as the [[List of Indian films of 2023|tenth highest-grossing Indian film]] of the year.<ref name="BOI_Rocky Aur Rani"/><ref name="boxoffww">{{cite web|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2023/|title=Bollywood Top Grossers Worldwide 2023|access-date=11 August 2023|website=Bollywood Hungama|archive-date=26 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230126125943/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2023/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the [[71st National Film Awards|71st National Awards]], it won [[National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Bhattacharya |first=Tanisha |date=1 August 2025 |title=71st National Film Awards: Karan Johar's Rocky Aur Rani Led By Alia-Ranveer Scores Big |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/71st-national-film-awards-karan-johars-rocky-aur-rani-led-by-alia-ranveer-scores-big-9001161 |access-date=1 August 2025 |website=NDTV}}</ref> The following year, Dharmendra co-starred alongside [[Shahid Kapoor]] and [[Kriti Sanon]] in the [[romantic comedy]] ''[[Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/teri_baaton_mein_aisa_uljha_jiya|title=Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya &#124; Rotten Tomatoes|website=www.rottentomatoes.com|access-date=19 April 2024|archive-date=29 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329160838/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/teri_baaton_mein_aisa_uljha_jiya|url-status=live}}</ref> The film received mixed to negative reviews from critics, but still did a lifetime business of {{INRConvert|1.3|b|year=2024}} worldwide to emerge a commercial success.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8418|title=A Decent First Quarter - Shaitaan Leads Classifications|access-date=19 April 2024|archive-date=19 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419181911/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8418|url-status=live}}</ref> 

The war drama ''[[Maddock Films|Ikkis]]'' (2026), based on the life of [[Arun Khetarpal]] was the final film of his illustrious career, however he died before the release of the film.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1600813295274930177 |access-date=26 December 2022 |website=Twitter |language=en|title=taran adarsh on X: 'DHARMENDRA - AGASTYA NANDA TO STAR IN SRIRAM RAGHAVAN - DINESH VIJAN'S 'IKKIS'… Post #Badlapur, #NationalAward winning director #SriramRaghavan teams up with #DineshVijan for #Ikkis… Stars #Dharmendra and #AgastyaNanda &#91;grandson of #AmitabhBachchan&#93;. / X}}</ref>

===Frequent collaborations===
Dharmendra's most successful pairing was with Hema Malini, whom he later married.<ref name="Express2"/> The couple performed together in many films including ''Tum Haseen Main Jawaan'', ''Sharafat'', ''Naya Zamana'', ''Seeta Aur Geeta'', ''Raja Jani'', ''Jugnu'', ''Dost'', ''Patthar Aur Payal'', ''Sholay'', ''Charas'', ''Maa'', ''Chacha Bhatija'' and ''Azaad''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/movies/when-dharmendra-hema-malinis-guest-appearance-overshadowed-this-films-lead-pair-8725262.html|title=When Dharmendra, Hema Malini's Guest Appearance Overshadowed This Film's Lead Pair|work=News18 |date=2 January 2024}}</ref>

He has worked with various directors, each with a different style of filmmaking.<ref>{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Comic leanings|url=https://www.couponraja.in/theroyale/dharmendra-action-king-comic-leanings/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180910131758/https://www.couponraja.in/theroyale/dharmendra-action-king-comic-leanings/|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 September 2018|work=The Royale|access-date=23 December 2010}}</ref> His longest collaboration was with director Arjun Hingorani from 1960 to 1991. ''Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere'' was the debut film of Dharmendra as an actor and Arjun's first directorial venture with Dharmendra as the lead hero.<ref name="TOI_May2018">{{cite news |last1=Jaisinghani |first1=Bella |date=6 May 2018 |title=Arjun Hingorani dead: Director Arjun Hingorani who introduced Sadhana and Dharmendra dies at 92 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/director-arjun-hingorani-who-introduced-sadhana-and-dharmendra-dies-at-92/articleshow/64055050.cms |work=The Times of India |access-date=26 April 2022 |archive-date=19 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619110009/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/director-arjun-hingorani-who-introduced-sadhana-and-dharmendra-dies-at-92/articleshow/64055050.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name= "Joshi">{{cite book |last=Joshi |first=Sumit |title=Bollywood Through Ages |publisher=Best Book Reads |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=WHQWCgAAQBAJ&q=Arjun+Hingorani&pg=PT65|isbn=9781311676696}}</ref> They worked together in ''[[Kab? Kyoon? Aur Kahan?]]'', ''Kahani Kismat Ki'', ''Khel Khilari Ka'', ''Katilon Ke Kaatil'' and ''[[Kaun Kare Kurbanie]]'' where Arjun Hingorani was the producer and the director, and ''Sultanat'' and ''[[Karishma Kudrat Kaa]]'', produced by [[Arjun Hingorani]].<ref name="TOI_May2018"/> He worked with director [[Pramod Chakravorty]] in ''Naya Zamana'', ''Jugnu'', ''Dream Girl'' and ''Azaad''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Jha |first1=Subhash K |date=17 August 2025 |title=Dharmendra remembers Pramod Chakravorty, "One of the most underrated directors I worked with" |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/dharmendra-remembers-pramod-chakravorty-one-underrated-directors-worked/ |work=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref> [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]] worked with him in many films including ''Hukumat'', ''Elaan-E-Jung'', ''[[Farishtay]]'', ''Tahalka'' and ''Apne''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Choudhury |first=Anjali |date=16 November 2025 |title=Anil Sharma Shares Story About Dharmendra's Shelved James Bond-Style Thriller Sher: "Kash Ye Film Ban Pati" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/anil-sharma-shares-story-about-dharmendras-shelved-james-bond-style-thriller-sher-kash-ye-film-ban-pati-9645858 |work=NDTV |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Anil Sharma recalls when Dharmendra left Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol embarrassed during Apne: 'Inka kuch heroines ke sath chakkar hi nahi chalta kabhi' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/anil-sharma-recalls-when-dharmendra-left-sunny-deol-and-bobby-deol-embarrased-during-apne-inka-kuch-heroines-ke-sath-chakkar-hi-nahi-chalta-kabhi/articleshow/116542225.cms |work=The Times of India |date=23 December 2024 |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>

===Works in other languages===

==== Punjabi ====
He has periodically appeared in films in his native tongue of [[Punjabi cinema|Punjabi]], starring in ''[[Kankan De Ohle]]'' (1970), ''[[Do Sher]]'' (1974), ''[[Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam]]'' (1974), ''[[Teri Meri Ik Jindri]]'' (1975), ''[[Putt Jattan De]]'' (1982) and ''[[Qurbani Jatt Di]]'' (1990). He returned to Punjabi cinema after a gap with the 2014 film ''[[Double Di Trouble]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dharmendra is all set to play a double role|last=Lalwani|first=Vickey|work=The Times of India|date=9 October 2013|access-date=19 June 2016|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Dharmendra-Minnisha-Lamba-Poonam-Dhillon-Ragini-Khanna-Ghuggi-and-Gippy-Grewal/articleshow/23775842.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028172307/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Dharmendra-Minnisha-Lamba-Poonam-Dhillon-Ragini-Khanna-Ghuggi-and-Gippy-Grewal/articleshow/23775842.cms|archive-date=28 October 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> According to director [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]], Dharmendra often worked on Punjabi films late at night and did so without charging any fees, motivated purely by the desire to support small-time regional filmmakers and help struggling productions. Even after completing his mainstream Hindi film schedules, Dharmendra would dedicate hours to such projects, accepting the workload without payment to give those films a chance at success.<ref>{{cite web |last=Entertainment Desk |date=29 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra worked on Punjabi films at night without charging any fees, reveals director Anil Sharma |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-worked-on-punjabi-films-at-night-without-charging-any-fees-reveals-director-anil-sharma-he-helped-so-many-people/articleshow/125650646.cms |access-date=5 December 2025 |website=The Times of India}}</ref>

==== Bengali ====
At the start of his film career he worked in the [[Cinema of West Bengal|Bengali]] film ''[[Paari (1966 film)|Paari]]'' (1966) directed by Jagannath Chatterjee. The film also featured [[Dilip Kumar]] and [[Keshto Mukherjee]] in key roles.<ref name="N18">{{cite news |last=Nag |first=Amitava |date=18 March 2016 |title=1966 and the filmic conquests for Bengali cinema |url=https://www.news18.com/blogs/movies/amitava-nag/throwback-thursday-1966-and-the-filmic-conquests-for-bengali-cinema-14057-1217345.html |accessdate=20 June 2021 |publisher=News18}}</ref>

==Other works==

===Political career===
Dharmendra served as a [[Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha|Member of the Indian Parliament]] ([[Lok Sabha]]) from [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] representing [[Bikaner]] in [[Rajasthan]] from 2004 to 2009. During his election campaign in 2004, he made an offensive remark that he should be elected [[dictator perpetuo]] to teach "basic etiquette that democracy requires" for which he was severely criticised.<ref>{{cite web|title=Congress makes Dharam garam|url=http://www.rediff.com/election/2004/apr/23dtake.htm|publisher=Rediff|access-date=23 December 2010|date=23 April 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081010183540/http://www.rediff.com/election/2004/apr/23dtake.htm|archive-date=10 October 2008|url-status=live}}</ref> He rarely attended [[Parliament of India|Parliament]] when the house was in session, preferring to spend time shooting movies or working at his farmhouse, for which he was also widely criticised.<ref>{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Political career|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=6&view=6|work=The Indian Express|access-date=23 December 2010}}</ref>

===Television===

[[File:Dharmendra.jpg|thumb|upright|Dharmendra at an event in 2011]]
In 2011, Dharmendra replaced [[Sajid Khan (director)|Sajid Khan]] as the male judge of the third series of popular reality show ''[[India's Got Talent]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Bollywood's lucky for TV|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bollywoods-lucky-for-tv/827205|work=The Indian Express|date=4 August 2011|access-date=5 August 2011|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011132942/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/bollywoods-lucky-for-tv/827205|url-status=live}}</ref> On 29 July 2011, the show aired on [[Colors TV]] with Dharmendra as the new judge and surpassed the opening ratings of the previous two seasons.<ref>{{cite news|title=Dharmendra fetches higher ratings for India's has Got Talent-3|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/hindi/Dharmendra-fetches-higher-ratings-for-Indias-Got-Talent-3/articleshow/9479102.cms|access-date=23 August 2016|date=4 August 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120701182038/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-08-04/tv/29850204_1_reality-show-tvr-average-rating|archive-date=1 July 2012|work=[[The Times of India]]|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2023, he appeared in his first television acting role as [[Salim Chisti]] in the historical series ''[[Taj: Divided by Blood]]'' which is available on [[Zee5|ZEE5]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari and Aashim Gulati attend the logo unveiling of TAJ – Divided by Blood |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-and-aashim-gulati-attend-the-logo-unveiling-of-taj-divided-by-blood-photogallery/cid/1916425 |work=The Telegraph (India) |date=14 February 2023 |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217170104/https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-and-aashim-gulati-attend-the-logo-unveiling-of-taj-divided-by-blood-photogallery/cid/1916425 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Producing and presenting films===
In 1983, Dharmendra set up a production company known as [[Vijayta Films]], which he named after his eldest daughter. In its maiden venture ''[[Betaab]]'', released in 1983, [[Vijayta Films]] launched Dharmendra's elder son [[Sunny Deol]] as the lead actor. The film was the second highest-grossing film of the year. In 1990 he produced the action film ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]'', also starring Sunny. The film won seven [[Filmfare Awards]], including the [[Filmfare Award for Best Film]].<ref name="BH_Jun2021">{{cite news |last1=Seta |first1=Fenil |date=22 June 2021 |title=31 Years of Ghayal: The INSIDE story on why Sunny Deol had to accept the Best Film Award at Filmfare on behalf of his father Dharmendra 31 |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/31-years-ghayal-inside-story-sunny-deol-accept-best-film-award-filmfare-behalf-father-dharmendra/ |work=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=24 November 2025 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153455/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/31-years-ghayal-inside-story-sunny-deol-accept-best-film-award-filmfare-behalf-father-dharmendra/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=4 April 2023 |title=What Happened When Sunny Deol's Ghayal And Aamir Khan's Dil Released On The Same Day? |url=https://www.news18.com/entertainment/what-happened-when-sunny-deols-ghayal-and-aamir-khans-dil-released-on-the-same-day-7466503.html |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153458/https://www.news18.com/entertainment/what-happened-when-sunny-deols-ghayal-and-aamir-khans-dil-released-on-the-same-day-7466503.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Filmfare Awards 1991 Winners |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/filmfare-awards-winners/bollywood/1991/101?from=mdr |access-date=4 August 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153455/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/filmfare-awards-winners/bollywood/1991/101?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref> It won the [[National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment]]. Dharmendra in 1995 produced ''[[Barsaat (1995 film)|Barsaat]]'', the costliest Indian film ever made until then, to launch his son [[Bobby Deol]] and [[Twinkle Khanna]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Vijayakar |first1=Rajeev |title=Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Rangeela and more: 1995 was an exceptional year |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/dilwale-dulhania-le-jayenge-rangeela-1995-exceptional-year/ |access-date=25 March 2020 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=1 March 2020 |archive-date=13 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200313132209/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/dilwale-dulhania-le-jayenge-rangeela-1995-exceptional-year/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It emerged a superhit and remains the first and only time to date that such a film was made with newcomers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=9247|title=Saiyaara Among The Biggest Newcomer Films Of All Time - Box Office India|website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Barsaat - Movie - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2968 |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=boxofficeindia.com |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153704/https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2968 |url-status=live }}</ref>
<!--He was the presenter for his films like ''[[Satyakam]]'' (1969) and ''[[Kab? Kyoon? Aur Kahan?|Kab Kyun Aur Kahan]]'' (1970).{{cn|date=November 2025}}-->
=== Poetry ===
Dharmendra had developed a long interest in poetry after frequenting [[Meena Kumari]], also a part-time poet, in the movie ''Phool Aur Patthar'' (1966).<ref>{{cite news |last=Bamzai |first=Kaveree |date=29 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra: The 'Pehelwan' Who Was A Poet |url=https://www.ndtv.com/opinion/dharmendra-the-pehelwan-who-was-also-a-poet-9721688 |access-date=27 November 2025 |work=NDTV}}</ref> He was particularly fond of [[Ghalib|Mirza Ghalib]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Mohamed |first=Khalid |date=24 November 2025 |title=Beyond the He-Man: The Tender, Unforgettable Dharmendra |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/celebrities/dharmendra-passes-away-at-89-tribute |access-date=24 November 2025 |work=The Quint}}</ref> In 2001, after developing a serious back ailment that required a prolonged stay in hospital, Dharmendra began writing poetry to cope with the solitude. In subsequent years he was known for composing spontaneous verses, often using them to express reflections on life and the deeper dimensions of human experience.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kumar |first=Anuj |date=24 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra bids adieu: Dashing everyman with the heart of a poet |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/dharmendra-passes-away-death-obit-funeral-hindi-cinema-bollywood/article70265929.ece |access-date=24 November 2025 |work=The Hindu}}</ref> His [[Punjabi poetry|Punjabi poem]] ''Aj Bhi Ji Karda Hai Pind Apne Nu Jaanwa'' ("I Still Yearn To Return To My Village") was featured in his last screen appearance, ''Ikkis'' (2025).<ref>{{cite news |last=Mathur |first=Abhimanyu |date=28 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra yearns to return to his village in moving poem from final film ''Ikkis''; fans say 'Brought tears to our eyes' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-yearns-to-return-to-his-village-in-moving-poem-from-final-film-ikkis-agastya-nanda-sunny-deol-bobby-deol-hema-101764309534535.html |access-date=27 November 2025 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
== Legacy ==

Dharmendra is widely regarded as one of the most influential personalities in Indian cinema.<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=Iconic heroes of Bollywood |magazine=[[India Today]] |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/cinema/100-years-of-indian-cinema/photo/iconic-heroes-of-bollywood-367542-2012-05-01/8 |url-status=live |access-date=24 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128234730/https://www.indiatoday.in/cinema/100-years-of-indian-cinema/photo/iconic-heroes-of-bollywood-367542-2012-05-01/8 |archive-date=28 November 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Dharmendra: Stars shine for some time and fade away, but an actor will always leave behind a legacy|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-stars-shine-for-some-time-and-fade-away-but-an-actor-will-always-leave-behind-a-legacy/articleshow/64355437.cms|access-date=10 July 2023|work=Times of India|date=29 May 2018|archive-date=10 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710143137/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-stars-shine-for-some-time-and-fade-away-but-an-actor-will-always-leave-behind-a-legacy/articleshow/64355437.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> He was considered one of the most handsome men in the world during his early career and is widely known as the "He-Man" of Bollywood.<ref>{{cite web|title=When Dharmendra was compared to a Hollywood star who he didn't recognise: 'Uski picture hi nahi dekhi thi'|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/when-dharmendra-was-compared-to-a-hollywood-star-who-he-didn-t-recognise-uski-picture-hi-nahi-dekhi-thi-101642923670930.html|access-date=10 July 2023|work=Hindustan Times|date=23 January 2022|archive-date=10 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710144301/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/when-dharmendra-was-compared-to-a-hollywood-star-who-he-didn-t-recognise-uski-picture-hi-nahi-dekhi-thi-101642923670930.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Considered to be a [[sex symbol]] early in his career, Dharmendra was noted for his affection and his appeal to his female fanbase, which according to the [[BBC]] was said to be in the "tens of millions".<ref name="BBC_24Nov2025"/>

Dharmendra is the only actor to have twice delivered seven successful films in a year. In 1973, his successful films, included ''[[Jugnu (1973 film)|Jugnu]]'', ''[[Yaadon Ki Baaraat]]'', ''[[Loafer (1973 film)|Loafer]]'', ''[[Kahani Kismat Ki]]'', ''[[Jheel Ke Us Paar]]'', ''[[Keemat (1973 film)|Keemat]]'' and ''[[Jwaar Bhata]]'' while in 1987, his profitable ventures were ''[[Hukumat]]'', ''[[Aag Hi Aag]]'', ''[[Loha (1987 film)|Loha]]'', ''[[Insaniyat Ke Dushman]]'', ''[[Watan Ke Rakhwale]]'', ''[[Insaf Ki Pukar]]'' and ''[[Insaaf Kaun Karega]]''.<ref name="R1973">{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=9477|title=Dharmendra Box Office Record In 1973|date=26 November 2025|website=[[Box Office India]]}}</ref><ref name="TG1987" />

Following his death, ''[[The New York Times]]'' called Dharmendra one of India’s "most versatile stars".<ref name=NYTobit>{{cite news |last1=Young |first1=Jin Yu |last2=K.B. |first2=Pragati |date=24 November 2025 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/24/world/asia/india-bollywood-dharmendra-dead.html |title=Dharmendra, One of Bollywood's Top Leading Men, Dies at 89 |work=[[The New York Times]] |access-date=25 November 2025}}</ref> ''[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]'' remembered him as "Indian cinema’s most beloved and enduring stars".<ref name=variety>{{cite magazine |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |date=24 November 2025 |url=https://variety.com/2025/film/obituaries-people-news/dharmendra-dead-sholay-bollywood-star-1236590603/|title=Dharmendra, Iconic Bollywood Star of 'Sholay' and 'Phool Aur Patthar,' Dies at 89 |magazine=Variety |access-date=25 November 2025}}</ref>

=== Critical appreciation ===
Dharmendra most notable acting performances include ''Satyakam'' with [[Hrishikesh Mukherjee]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|title=Satyakam: Dharmendra's best role of his career|website=rediff.com|publisher=Rediff|access-date=23 December 2010|author=Dinesh Raheja|author-link=Dinesh Raheja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110126212046/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|archive-date=26 January 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> and ''Sholay'', which is listed by ''[[Indiatimes]]'' as one of the "top 25 must see [[Bollywood]] films of all time". In 2005, the judges of the 50th annual Filmfare Awards awarded ''Sholay'' the special distinction of [[Filmfare Best Film of 50 years]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=22 February 2006|title=Winners of 50th Filmfare Awards|url=https://zeenews.india.com/home/winners-of-50th-filmfare-awards_277396.html|access-date=23 June 2020|website=Zee News|language=en|archive-date=26 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200626022217/https://zeenews.india.com/home/winners-of-50th-filmfare-awards_277396.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2019, ''[[Rediff.com]]'' placed him 10th in its "Top 10 Bollywood Actors of All Time" list.<ref>{{cite web |title=Readers' Pick: Top 10 Bollywood Actors of All Time! |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/slide-show-1-readers-pick-the-top-ten/20130502.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818133557/https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/slide-show-1-readers-pick-the-top-ten/20130502.htm |archive-date=18 August 2019 |access-date=24 December 2021 |language=en |magazine=India Today}}</ref> 

In 2022, he was placed in ''[[Outlook India]]''{{'}}s "75 Best Bollywood Actors" list.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 August 2022 |title=75 Bollywood Actors Who Conquered Hearts Of The Millions |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/75-actors-who-conquered-hearts-of-the-millions-since-1947-news-215861/amp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220816142138/https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/75-actors-who-conquered-hearts-of-the-millions-since-1947-news-215861/amp |archive-date=16 August 2022 |access-date=16 August 2022 |work=Outlook India}}</ref> 

While he did receive civilian awards and a "consolation prize" (the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award), Dharmendra never won an award for his acting.<ref name=":2" /> In a tribute following his death, essayist [[Mukul Kesavan]] has argued that Dharmendra’s acting talent was long under-recognised because in the early phase of his career, in the 1960s, he frequently appeared in heroine-centric films, thus seeing his screen impact diminished by that of the lead actress, while in the 1970s many of his finest roles occurred in multi-starrers, where his comic and dramatic work had to share space with other prominent actors, further diluting recognition for his individual contributions.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kesavan |first=Mukul |date=25 November 2025 |title=Why Dharmendra's Finest Performances Still Outshine Bollywood's Award Winners |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/no-one-writes-to-the-prison-doc-anymore-news-237463 |access-date=25 November 2025 |work=Outlook India}}</ref>

In a 2016 feature in ''[[The Hindu]]'', film critic [[Vijay Lokapally]] noted that Dharmendra’s shift in the 1990s toward low-budget action cinema echoed the career path of wrestler-actor [[Dara Singh]], who had once dominated India’s working-class entertainment circuit. He observed that as mainstream Hindi cinema became dominated by younger stars such as the "[[Khans of Bollywood|Khan trio]]" and [[Akshay Kumar]], Dharmendra deliberately targeted a different audience, comprising labourers, small-town viewers, and long-time fans of traditional action heroes, by appearing in quickly produced, low-cost action films screened largely in single theatres across India’s B- and C-circuits. While initially dismissed by the press and some of his admirers as a decline into "[[B movie|B-grade]]" filmmaking, he argued that Dharmendra’s strategy was in fact pragmatic: these films were economically viable, shot within a month, and sustained his connection with a loyal audience base that valued old-style heroism over the romantic trends of the multiplex era.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lokapally|first=Vijay|date=5 July 2016|title='In and as' HERO|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/in-and-as-hero/article3639660.ece|access-date=21 October 2025|work=The Hindu}}</ref> However, his image as a leading man was affected by his decision to act in a number of low-budget or "B-grade" productions, as evidenced by the fact that despite his many commercially successful films, he also holds a record number of flop films, estimated at around 180 titles released between 1960 and 2013, most of those occurring during his "B-grade" phase.<ref>{{cite news |date=10 May 2025|title=Meet actor who gave 6 blockbusters, 7 superhits, 36 hits, still holds record for most flop films, once also played hero in B grade movies|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-meet-actor-dharmendra-who-gave-6-blockbusters-7-superhits-36-hits-still-holds-record-most-flop-films-played-hero-b-grade-movies-not-mithun-chakraborty-but-3150988|access-date=21 October 2025|work=DNA India}}</ref>

=== Industry appreciation ===
When [[Dilip Kumar]] was giving the [[Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award]] to Dharmendra, he commented, "Whenever I get to meet with God Almighty, I will set before him my only complaint—why did you not make me as handsome as Dharmendra?".<ref>{{cite news |title=धर्मेंद्र ने एक अवॉर्ड शो में इमोशनल होकर दिलीप कुमार के बारे में कहा था- 'हम एक मां की कोख से क्यों पैदा नहीं हुए' |url=https://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-pays-his-respect-to-dilip-kumar-at-his-residence-was-inspired-with-the-legendary-actor-21806930.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710145935/https://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-pays-his-respect-to-dilip-kumar-at-his-residence-was-inspired-with-the-legendary-actor-21806930.html |archive-date=10 July 2023 |access-date=10 July 2023 |work=Jagran}}</ref> One of the most successful actors of the 1970s and 1980s, Dharmendra appeared in [[Box Office India|''Box Office India''<nowiki/>'s]] "Top Actors" list eighteen times from 1968 to 1984 and 1987. He topped the list four times (1972–1975).<ref name="Top Actors" /> 

In an interview, [[Salman Khan]] said that Dharmendra is the only person he has consistently followed after his father; he admires Dharmendra even more than Dharmendra’s own sons do.<ref>{{cite web |title=Salman Khan says he 'follows Dharmendra more than his own sons do', wants to remake these 3 films of his |website=Hindustan Times |date=31 March 2025 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/salman-khan-says-he-follows-dharmendra-more-than-his-own-sons-do-wants-to-remake-these-3-films-of-his-101743416457328.html |access-date=29 July 2025}}</ref> He also praised Dharmendra’s enduring appeal, calling him “the most beautiful looking man” because of the innocence and vulnerability in his face combined with a strong physique, a remark that led to Dharmendra being affectionately labelled “macho man".<ref>{{cite web |title=Salman Khan calls Dharmendra 'the most beautiful looking man' on The Big Picture |website=Indian Express |date=16 November 2021 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-shares-video-of-salman-khan-calling-him-icon-most-beautiful-looking-man-7625556/ |access-date=29 July 2025}}</ref> In a 2007 episode of ''[[Koffee with Karan]]'', [[Jaya Bachchan]] revealed that she had been completely smitten with Dharmendra, describing him as a “Greek god” and even sharing her admiration in front of his wife, Hema Malini. She recalled being so starstruck upon their first meeting that she “hid behind a sofa".<ref>{{cite web |title=Not Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan was madly in love with this actor |website=DNA India |date=29 April 2025 |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-not-amitabh-bachchan-jaya-bachchan-madly-in-love-this-actor-dharmendra-accepted-it-front-of-wife-hema-malini-called-him-greek-god-he-is-3145803 |access-date=29 July 2025}}</ref> [[Amitabh Bachchan]] also revealed that Jaya had already told him she admired Dharmendra above all others, saying, “There is nobody in the industry more handsome than him.”<ref>{{cite web |author=Ananya Das |title=Aamir Khan leaves Amitabh Bachchan stumped with question about Jaya Bachchan on KBC 16 |website=Hindustan Times |date=2 October 2024 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tv/aamir-khan-leaves-amitabh-bachchan-stumped-with-question-about-jaya-bachchan-on-kaun-banega-crorepati-kbc-16-101727839842585.html |access-date=29 July 2025}}</ref>

[[Zeenat Aman]] described Dharmendra as her favourite co-star, calling him “strikingly handsome” and noting his humble personality, which made her feel at ease during filming.<ref>{{cite web |title=Zeenat Aman calls Dharmendra her 'favourite co‑star', recalls helping each other with language on Shalimar shoot |website=The Indian Express |date=8 August 2023 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/zeenat-aman-calls-dharmendra-favourite-costar-recalls-helped-each-other-language-shalimar-shoot-8881741/ |access-date=29 July 2025}}</ref> [[Madhuri Dixit]] has described Dharmendra as “one of the most handsome persons I have ever seen on screen".<ref>{{cite web |agency=IANS |title=Dharmendra most handsome person, says Madhuri |website=The New Indian Express |date=29 May 2013 |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/hindi/2013/May/29/dharmendra-most-handsome-person-says-madhuri-481686.html |access-date=29 July 2025}}</ref>

==Personal life ==
[[File:Bobby_Deol_Dharmendra_Sunny_Deol_still10.jpg|thumb|250px|Dharmendra with his sons, [[Bobby Deol|Bobby]] (on left), [[Sunny Deol]] (right hand side)]]

=== Relationships and family ===
Dharmendra married Prakash Kaur at the age of 19 in 1954, before he entered the film industry.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bobby Deol Reportedly Attacked Hema Malini with a Knife After Dharmendra's 2nd Marriage; Here's What Prakash Kaur Said on the Matter! |url=https://daily.bhaskar.com/news/ENT-BOW-dharmendra-hema-controversy-5440408-PHO.html |access-date=13 February 2020 |work=dailybhaskar |date=16 October 2016 |language=en |archive-date=13 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213180023/https://daily.bhaskar.com/news/ENT-BOW-dharmendra-hema-controversy-5440408-PHO.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The couple became parents to two sons, [[Sunny Deol]] and [[Bobby Deol]], both successful film actors; and two daughters, Vijeta (born in 1962) and Ajeeta (born in 1966).<ref>{{cite news |title=Dharmendra's family tree explained: Meet the actor's 6 children, 13 grandchildren, other members of Deol clan |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/life/entertainment-dharmendras-family-tree-explained-meet-the-actors-6-children-13-grandchildren-other-members-of-deol-clan-4054553/lite/ |work=The Financial Express |date=24 November 2025 |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref> Throughout his life, Dharmendra spent most of his time with Kaur, while Malini lived independently with her children.<ref>{{cite news |title=Dharmendra Dies At 89: A Look At His Marriages With Prakash Kaur And Hema Malini |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/dharmendra-dies-at-89-a-look-at-his-marriages-with-prakash-kaur-and-hema-malini-9608282 |work=NDTV |date=24 November 2025 |access-date=25 November 2025}}</ref>

After moving to [[Bombay]] and entering films, Dharmendra married [[Hema Malini]], which caused controversy at the time since he was already married. Rumours began to circulate about Dharmendra and Hema Malini converting to [[Islam]] for this wedding.<ref>{{cite news|title=Dharmendra or "Dilawar Khan?"|url=http://www.milligazette.com/Archives/2004/16-30Jun04-Print-Edition/163006200433.htm|access-date=18 June 2016|publisher=[[Milli Gazette]]|date=30 June 2004|quote=When his political rivals brought the issue to the notice of election authorities and the general public, he denied his conversion to Islam and change of name.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624093107/http://www.milligazette.com/Archives/2004/16-30Jun04-Print-Edition/163006200433.htm|archive-date=24 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="converted">{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/celebrities-who-converted-to-islam/photostory/30985640.cms|title=Celebrities who converted to Islam|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=23 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227231411/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/Celebrities-who-converted-to-Islam/photostory/30985640.cms|archive-date=27 February 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2004, during a political campaign, when the rumours began to circulate again, Dharmendra asserted that he remained a [[Hindus|Hindu]],<ref name="ArabNews_Religion">{{Cite web |last=Suhrawardy |first=Nilofar |date=19 April 2004 |title=Dharmendra's Past Haunts His Present |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/247932 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040708094935/http://www.arabnews.com/?page=4&section=0&article=43427&d=19&m=4&y=2004 |archive-date=8 July 2004 |website=[[Arab News]] |quote=I am a Hindu. The question of my having ever changed religion does not exist.}}</ref> the family being [[Arya Samaj]]i.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Deols don't believe in superstitions |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/deols-dont-believe-in-superstitions/articleshow/4680292.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241210085704/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/deols-dont-believe-in-superstitions/articleshow/4680292.cms |archive-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=21 June 2009 |access-date=29 December 2024 |quote=They [Dharmendra and Sunny Deol] said, 'We keep any kind of superstition at bay. Being followers of the Arya Samaj system, we bring in positive energy by doing good deeds for the good of others.'}}</ref> He and Malini starred together in a number of movies in the early 1970s, including ''[[Sholay]]''.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hema Malini on 35th wedding anniversary|url=http://www.mid-day.com/articles/love-is-togetherness-hema-malini-on-35th-wedding-anniversary/16181170|access-date=2 May 2015|work=[[Mid-Day]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170921114842/http://www.mid-day.com/articles/love-is-togetherness-hema-malini-on-35th-wedding-anniversary/16181170|archive-date=21 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Personal life|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=4&view=4|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126142727/http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=4&view=4|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 January 2013|work=The Indian Express|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> The couple had two daughters, [[Esha Deol]] (an actress, born in 1981) and Ahana Deol (an assistant director, born in 1985). His grandson, [[Bobby Deol|Bobby Deol's]] son, is also named "Dharam", after him.<ref name="grand1">{{cite news |last1=Goyal |first1=Divya |title=Viral: The Internet Is Crushing On Bobby Deol's Son Aryaman |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/viral-the-internet-is-crushing-on-bobby-deols-son-aryaman-1984709 |access-date=27 July 2022 |work=NDTV |date=29 January 2019 |archive-date=29 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190129114638/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/viral-the-internet-is-crushing-on-bobby-deols-son-aryaman-1984709 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Dharmendra had a farmhouse in [[Lonavala]], where he lived during his final years. His family resides in [[Juhu]], Mumbai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 June 2021 |title=Dharmendra shares idyllic early morning views from his farmhouse. Watch video |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-shares-idyllic-early-morning-views-from-his-farmhouse-watch-video-101622608247977.html |access-date=22 August 2023 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=राजाओं जैसी जिंदगी जीते हैं धर्मेंद्र, देखिए उनके 100 एकड़ में फैले आलीशान फार्महाउस की INSIDE तस्वीरें |url=https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-lavish-100-acre-lonavala-farmhouse-inside-pictures |access-date=11 June 2024 |website=[[Amar Ujala]] |language=hi |archive-date=11 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611123433/https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-lavish-100-acre-lonavala-farmhouse-inside-pictures |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Dharmendra Farmhouse Pics: मुंबई की भीड़ से दूर लोनावला में बना है धर्मेंद्र का आलीशान फार्महाउस देखिए Inside तस्वीरें |url=https://www.abplive.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-lonavala-luxury-farmhouse-inside-photos-see-here-2297662 |access-date=11 June 2024 |website=[[ABP Live]] |date=2 January 2023 |language=hi |archive-date=11 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611123616/https://www.abplive.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-lonavala-luxury-farmhouse-inside-photos-see-here-2297662 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2023, Dharmendra lamented that Bollywood neglected his family and never appreciated Deol family's contributions to [[Cinema of India|Indian cinema]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 August 2023 |title=इंडस्ट्रीचं देओल कुटुंबाकडे दुर्लक्ष? अनेक वर्षांनंतर धर्मेंद्र अखेर व्यक्त झालेच |trans-title=Industry neglected Deol family? After many years Dharmendra expressed himself. |url=https://www.tv9marathi.com/entertainment/industry-never-recognised-deol-family-said-dharmendra-1003512.html |access-date=22 August 2023 |website=TV9 Marathi |language=mr |archive-date=22 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230822103214/https://www.tv9marathi.com/entertainment/industry-never-recognised-deol-family-said-dharmendra-1003512.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

His relatives in the film industry included his paternal cousin leading [[Punjabi cinema|Punjabi]] actor [[Veerendra]],<ref name=":02">{{cite news |journal=[[The Times of India]]|date=18 June 2019|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/regional/punjabi/film-on-dharmendras-cousin-veerendra-singh-who-was-shot-dead-during-shoot/videoshow/69845987.cms|title=Film on Dharmendra's cousin Veerendra Singh, who was shot dead during shoot|publisher=[[Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.]]|access-date=31 October 2021|archive-date=17 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817131520/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/regional/punjabi/film-on-dharmendras-cousin-veerendra-singh-who-was-shot-dead-during-shoot/videoshow/69845987.cms|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IEVeerendarSingh2024">{{cite news
 |title=Months after Amar Singh Chamkila's murder, Dharmendra's cousin and Punjabi superstar Veerendar Singh was killed in Punjab. Both cases were never solved|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/months-after-amar-singh-chamkilas-murder-dharmendras-cousin-and-punjabi-superstar-veerendar-singh-was-killed-in-punjab-both-cases-were-never-solved-9271434/|work=The Indian Express|date=15 April 2024|access-date=29 November 2025|location=Chennai}}</ref> his maternal cousin director-producer [[Guddu Dhanoa]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/this-week-that-year-birthday-boy-dharmendra-on-his-love-affair-with-cinema/articleshow/66994200.cms|title=Birthday boy Dharmendra on his love affair with cinema|website=Mumbai Mirror|date=8 December 2018|last=Bhattacharya|first=Roshmila|quote=Dharamji’s cousin, Guddu Dhanoa, says he’s proud to have a brother who’s so handsome.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-discharged-from-hospital-filmmaker-and-cousin-guddu-dhanoa-visits-his-home-reveals-actor-is-recovering-well/articleshow/125272436.cms|title=Dharmendra discharged from hospital: Filmmaker and cousin Guddu Dhanoa visits his home, reveals actor is recovering well|date=12 November 2025|website=[[Times of India]]}}</ref> as well his nephew [[Abhay Deol]], son of his younger brother Ajit Deol (d. 2015) who was an actor in both Hindi and Punjabi cinema.<ref>{{Cite web |date=24 October 2015|title=Dharmendra's Brother, Bollywood Veteran Ajit Singh Deol Dies|url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/dharmendras-brother-bollywood-veteran-ajit-singh-deol-dies-1235891|website=[[NDTV]]}}</ref> Dharmendra had launched Abhay Deol through his production house Vijayta Films in 2005 with ''[[Socha Na Tha]]'', which was also [[Imtiaz Ali (director)|Imtiaz Ali]]'s directorial debut. His brothers-in-law, through his sisters, were both producers: Sher Jung Singh Punchhe, who had produced ''Satyakam'' among others;<ref>{{cite news
 |last=Upadhyaya|first=Amit|title=Try watching 'Satyakam' in the age of post-truth, fake news and incorruptible leaders|url=https://theprint.in/feature/reel-take/try-watching-satyakam-in-the-age-of-post-truth-fake-news-and-incorruptible-leaders/86162/|publisher=|date=22 July 2018|access-date=29 November 2025|quote=So personal the project was for even Dharmendra, who gave his finest performance here, that the film was produced by his brother-in-law Sher Singh Jung Punchhe.|work=[[ThePrint]]}}</ref> and Bikram Singh Dehal (d. 2019), who had produced movies starring Dharmendra as well Sunny Deol's debut film, ''Betaab'' (1983).<ref>{{cite news
 |last=|first=|title=Bikram Singh Dehal Dead|url=https://filminformation.com/featured/bikram-singh-dehal-dead-16-august-2019/|publisher=|date=16 August 2019|access-date=29 November 2025|work=[[Komal Nahta|Film Information]]}}</ref>

===Health issues and death===
In 2010, Dharmendra had quit drinking alcohol after what he called a "health scare." He was previously known for his [[Alcoholism|alcohol addiction]], even being called "the biggest boozer in Bollywood", as he would drink up to 12 bottles a day.<ref>{{cite news |date=8 August 2024 |title=When Dharmendra reacted to being called the biggest boozer in Bollywood: 'Mera liver bahot strong hai' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/when-dharmendra-reacted-to-being-called-the-biggest-boozer-in-bollywood-mera-liver-bahot-strong-hai/articleshow/112361933.cms |access-date=24 November 2025 |work=The Times of India |publisher=TOI Entertainment Desk}}</ref>

Between 2015 and 2020, he had multiple health issues, including [[back pain]], [[muscle strain]], and weakness, which occasionally required hospitalisation. In 2025, Dharmendra underwent a [[Corneal transplantation|corneal transplant surgery]] after the [[cornea]] of his left eye was damaged.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-undergoes-eye-graft-interacts-with-paparazzi-with-bandaged-eye-calls-himself-strong-101743492513526.html|title=Dharmendra undergoes eye graft, interacts with paparazzi with bandaged eye; calls himself strong: 'Abhi bahut damm hai'|work=Hindustan Times|first=Ananya|last=Das|date=1 April 2025|access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>

He had also been hospitalised on 31 October 2025 at the [[Breach Candy Hospital]] in Mumbai due to breathing difficulties. He was admitted to the ICU for observation and was discharged within a few hours once all his vital parameters stabilised.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/actor-dharmendra-discharged-from-breach-candy-hospital-10360455/lite/|title=Dharmendra Health Update Today: Veteran actor discharged from hospital, family statement says 'actor to continue recovery at home'|work=The Indian Express|date=12 November 2025|access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>

On 10 November 2025, Dharmendra was again admitted to Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of respiratory issues. His second wife, Hema Malini, shared on social media that he was under continuous medical supervision. According to reports, he was placed on ventilator support as his condition became critical. Several actors, politicians, and fans across the country expressed their concern and prayed for his speedy recovery.<ref name="auto2">{{cite web | last=Kanetkar | first=Riddhima | title=After Esha Deol, Hema Malini DENIES reports of Dharmendra's death, accuses media of spreading 'false news': 'What is happening is unforgivable' | website=DNA India | date=11 November 2025 | url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-after-esha-deol-hema-malini-denies-reports-of-dharmendra-death-accuses-media-of-spreading-false-news-what-is-happening-is-unforgivable-3187794 | access-date=11 November 2025}}</ref>

On 11 November 2025, rumours began circulating on social media and several news channels claiming that Dharmendra had died. The reports spread rapidly, with many media outlets broadcasting the unverified news. His death rumours flooded the internet after Indian Defence Minister [[Rajnath Singh]] and poet and lyricist [[Javed Akhtar]] even mourned his death in a post. Later, Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol dismissed the rumours through their social media accounts, confirming that Dharmendra was alive and in stable condition. They condemned the spread of such false information, calling it completely unacceptable and&nbsp;irresponsible.<ref>{{cite web | title=Dharmendra Health Updates: Hema Malini and Esha Deol rubbish reports of the actor's death | website=The Times of India | date=11 November 2025 | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-health-updates-legendary-actor-dharmendra-health-news-celebs-reaction/liveblog/125237495.cms | access-date=11 November 2025}}</ref><ref name="auto2"/><ref>{{Cite news |date=11 November 2025 |title=Esha Deol rubbishes Dharmendra death reports: 'My father is stable and recovering' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/esha-deol-rubbishes-dharmendra-death-reports-my-father-is-stable-and-recovering/articleshow/125238888.cms |access-date=11 November 2025 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>

Dharmendra died on 24 November 2025 at his residence in Mumbai, at the age of 89 following age-related illness.<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=Veteran Actor Dharmendra Passes Away at 89 |url=https://www.filmfare.com/news/bollywood/veteran-actor-dharmendra-passes-away-at-89_-79088.html |magazine=Filmfare |date=24 November 2025 |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref><ref name="BBC_24Nov2025">{{cite news |last=Pandey |first=Geeta |date=24 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra: Bollywood's 'He-Man' dies at 89 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg66lv566kyo |work=BBC |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=24 November 2025 |title=Veteran actor Dharmendra passes away LIVE updates: Tributes pour in |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/actor-dharmendra-death-bollywood-funeral-movies-live-updates-on-november-24-2025/article70265484.ece |access-date=24 November 2025 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> His last rites were held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in the [[Vile Parle]] area of Mumbai, with family members and numerous film-industry colleagues in attendance.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mukhopadhyay |first=Sounak |date=24 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra no more: Bollywood celebrities reach Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle for his last rites {{!}} Watch videos |url=https://www.livemint.com/entertainment/dharmendra-no-more-hema-malini-reaches-pawan-hans-crematorium-in-vile-parle-for-his-last-rites-watch-video-11763974565174.html |work=Mint |access-date=25 November 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Pathak |first=Manish Kumar |date=24 November 2025 |title=Dharmendra's death: Hundreds throng Mumbai crematorium, triggering major traffic snarl on SV Road as Bollywood stars bid farewell |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/dharmendras-death-hundreds-crematorium-major-traffic-snarl-10383669/ |work=The Indian Express |access-date=25 November 2025}}</ref>

==Filmography==
{{Main|Dharmendra filmography}}

==Accolades and honours==

=== Civilian award ===

[[File:The President, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil presenting the Padma Bhushan Award to Shri Dharmendra Deol, at an Investiture Ceremony-II, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 04, 2012.jpg|thumb|Then President of India, [[Pratibha Patil]] presenting the [[Padma Bhushan]] Award to Dharmendra in 2012]]
* 2012 – [[Padma Bhushan]], India's third highest civilian honour from the [[Government of India]]<ref>{{cite web|date=27 January 2013|title=Padma Awards2012|url=http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=79881|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524145714/http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=79881|archive-date=24 May 2013|access-date=27 January 2013|publisher=pib}}</ref>

=== National Film Awards ===
{{Main|National Film Awards}}

* [[38th National Film Awards|1990]] – [[National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment|Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment]] – ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]''<ref>{{Cite news |title=National Awards 1990 Winners |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/national-awards-winners/1990/108?from=mdr |access-date=4 August 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804171522/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/national-awards-winners/1990/108?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Filmfare Awards===
{{Main|Filmfare Awards}}

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Year
!Category
!Film
!Result
|-
|1965
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor|Best Supporting Actor]]
|''[[Ayee Milan Ki Bela]]''
|{{nom}}<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bhardwaj |first1=Kartik |date=11 November 2025 |title=Veteran actor Dharmendra passes away at 89 |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/hindi/news/2025/Nov/11/veteran-actor-dharmendra-passes-away-at-89 |work=Cinema Express |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>
|-
|1967
|rowspan="4"|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
|''[[Phool Aur Patthar]]''
|{{nom}}<ref>{{cite news |title=Dharmendra, Raring to Go at 80 |url=https://www.ndtv.com/photos/entertainment/dharmendra-raring-to-go-at-80-21105 |work=NDTV |date=8 December 2015 |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>
|-
|1972
|''[[Mera Gaon Mera Desh]]''
|{{nom}}<ref name="HT_Dec2014">{{cite news |last1=Walter |first1=Neetika |date=8 December 2014 |title=Remembering some of his memorable performances on Dharmendra's 79th birthday! |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/remembering-some-of-his-memorable-performances-on-dharmendra-s-79th-birthday/story-Q71BKI1yIM7rzOdLYyCW5J.html |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>
|-
|1974
|''[[Yaadon Ki Baaraat]]''
|{{nom}}<ref name="HT_Dec2014"/>
|-
|1975
|''[[Resham Ki Dori]]''
|{{nom}}<ref>{{cite news |last1=Arora |first1=Tanya |date=20 August 2024 |title=Resham Ki Dori: वो फिल्म, जिसके लिए धर्मेंद्र को आखिरी बार मिला था बेस्ट एक्टर का नॉमिनेशन और उम्रभर की कसक - Dharmendra never won best actor filmfare award 50 years back last time nominated for film Resham Ki Dori |url=https://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-never-won-best-actor-filmfare-award-50-years-back-last-time-nominated-for-film-resham-ki-dori-23781266.html |work=[[Dainik Jagran]] |language=hi |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>
|-
|1991
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Film|Best Film]]
|''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]''
|{{won}}<ref name="BH_Jun2021"/>
|-
|1997 
| [[Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award|Lifetime Achievement Award]] 
| —
|{{won}}<ref>{{cite news |title=When Dharmendra admitted he would attend award shows in a T-shirt and shorts: Throwback |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/when-dharmendra-admitted-he-would-attend-award-shows-in-a-t-shirt-and-shorts-throwback/articleshow/105827105.cms |work=The Times of India |date=8 December 2023 |access-date=24 November 2025}}</ref>
|}

===Other awards and recognitions===
[[File:Dharmendra and Sunny Shah.jpg|thumb|Dharmendra being awarded the Babasaheb Ambedkar Nobel Award in 2017]]
* In the mid-seventies, Dharmendra was voted one of the most handsome men in the world.<ref>{{cite news |title=Dharmendra, who was voted as one of the most handsome men in the 70s, is seen with his daughter Vijetta Deol at their residence. |url=https://photogallery.indiatimes.com/movies/100-yrs-of-indian-cinema/dharmendras-toi-archives-100-years-of-indian-cinema/articleshow/20148585.cms |access-date=12 August 2022 |work=The Times of India |date=20 May 2013 |archive-date=7 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007081437/https://photogallery.indiatimes.com/movies/100-yrs-of-indian-cinema/dharmendras-toi-archives-100-years-of-indian-cinema/articleshow/20148585.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>
* In 1999, Lifetime Achievement at the Annual Kalakar Awards.<ref name="IE_Awards">{{cite news |title=Dharmendra - About |url=https://indianexpress.com/about/dharmendra/ |access-date=24 November 2025 |work=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>
* He was a recipient of the "Living Legend Award" by the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry ([[FICCI]]) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Indian entertainment industry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archives.chennaionline.com/film/News/2007/03article09.asp|title=FICCI-Frames award for Kamal Haasan|access-date=2 January 2009|last=Rangaraj|first=R.|date=14 March 2007|publisher=Channai Online|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081023215117/http://archives.chennaionline.com/film/News/2007/03article09.asp|archive-date=23 October 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* In 2003 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sansui Viewers' Choice Movie Awards.<ref>{{cite news|title=Devdas sweeps movie awards|work=The Statesman|date=29 March 2003}}</ref>
* In 2004, he was honoured for Best Contribution to Indian Cinema.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hrithik, Urmila win top honours at Zee awards ceremony|work=Daily Express|date=27 February 2004}}</ref>
* In 2005, he received the [[Zee Cine Award for Lifetime Achievement]].<ref name="IE_Awards"/>
* In 2007, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the [[Pune International Film Festival]] (PIFF)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pune International Film Festival |url=https://www.piffindia.com/PIFF-distinguished-awardees.php |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=www.piffindia.com}}</ref>
* In 2007, he received an [[IIFA Lifetime Achievement Award]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=IIFA Awards 2007 Winners |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/iifa-awards-winners/2007/117 |access-date=4 August 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804173051/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/iifa-awards-winners/2007/117 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* In 2007, he received an award for Humanitarian Services to the Indian Nation.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/dharmendra-gets-an-award/articleshow/2625065.cms|title=Dharmendra gets an award – Sunday TOI|work=The Times of India|date=16 December 2007|access-date=12 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091213045710/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2625065.cms|archive-date=13 December 2009|url-status=live}}</ref>
* In 2007, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement award by DBR Entertainment.<ref name="Hindu">{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/009200707060323.htm|title='Garam Dharam' still a hit with fans in US, Canada|access-date=2 January 2009|date=6 July 2007|work=The Hindu|location=Chennai, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070921125430/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/009200707060323.htm|archive-date=21 September 2007|url-status=live}}</ref>
* In 2007, the [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]] newspaper ''[[Quami Ekta]]'' honoured him for his contributions to Indian cinema.<ref name="Hindu"/>
* In 2008, he was named "Actor Par Excellence" at the Max [[Stardust Awards]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 January 2008 |title=MAX Stardust Awards 2008 |url=https://www.afaqs.com/media-briefs/28550_max-stardust-awards-2008 |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=afaqs! |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804172553/https://www.afaqs.com/media-briefs/28550_max-stardust-awards-2008 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* In 2008, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th [[Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image]] (MAMI) [[Mumbai Film Festival|International Film Festival]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibosnetwork.com/newsmanager/templates/template1.aspx?articleid=21234&zoneid=4|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121206013021/http://www.ibosnetwork.com/newsmanager/templates/template1.aspx?articleid=21234&zoneid=4|url-status=dead|archive-date=6 December 2012|title=Dharmendra, Rishi Kapoor win at 10th M.A.M.I event|access-date=2 January 2009|date=14 March 2008|publisher=IBOS}}</ref>
* In 2009, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the [[Nashik]] International Film Festival (NIFF).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/dharamendra-asha-parekh-get-lifetime-achievement-award/497393|title=Dharamendra, Asha Parekh get lifetime achievement award|work=The Indian Express|date=3 August 2009|access-date=12 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090907163014/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/dharamendra-asha-parekh-get-lifetime-achievement-award/497393|archive-date=7 September 2009|url-status=live}}</ref>
<!--* In 2010, he was honoured as the Big Star Entertainer for his half-century of excellence at the [[BIG Star Entertainment Awards]].{{Citation needed|date=August 2023}}-->
* In 2011, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the [[Apsara Film & Television Producers Guild Award]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hamaraphotos.com/photo_-440041.html|title=Dharmendra at 6th Apsara Film and Television Producers Guild Awards in BKC, Mumbai on 11th Jan 2011|website=Hamara Photos}}</ref>
* In 2011, he received a "Salaam Maharashtra Award" for completing 50 years in the film industry.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dharmendra Bags 'Salaam Maharashtra Award' For 50 Years in B'Town!|url=https://www.movietalkies.com/news/dharmendra-bags-salaam-maharashtra-award-for-50-years-in-btown/|access-date=26 June 2020|website=Movie Talkies|date=31 January 2011|language=en|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011132957/https://www.movietalkies.com/news/dharmendra-bags-salaam-maharashtra-award-for-50-years-in-btown/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* In 2011, he was honoured with "The ITA Scroll Of Honour" at the [[Indian Television Academy Awards]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Amitabh-Dharmendra-honoured-at-Indian-Television-Awards/H1-Article1-750373.aspx|title=Amitabh, Dharmendra honoured at Indian Television Awards|date=26 September 2011|access-date=8 December 2011|publisher=[[The Hindustan Times|Hintustantimes]]|location=New Delhi|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927021500/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Amitabh-Dharmendra-honoured-at-Indian-Television-Awards/H1-Article1-750373.aspx|archive-date=27 September 2011}}</ref>
* In 2017, he was honoured with the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Nobel award at Mumbai hosted by the International Human Rights Council.<ref>{{Cite news |date=13 April 2017 |title=Dharmendra honoured with the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Nobel Award |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/dharmendra-honoured-with-the-dr-babasaheb-ambedkar-nobel-award/story-RsRSaEGCLlZwNxjiW3umrI.html#:~:text=Dharmendra,%20along%20with%20several%20other,Bhaidas%20Hall%20in%20Juhu,%20Mumbai. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021181124/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/dharmendra-honoured-with-the-dr-babasaheb-ambedkar-nobel-award/story-RsRSaEGCLlZwNxjiW3umrI.html#:~:text=Dharmendra,%20along%20with%20several%20other,Bhaidas%20Hall%20in%20Juhu,%20Mumbai. |archive-date=21 October 2021 |access-date=17 January 2025 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en-us |url-status=live }}</ref>
* In 2020, he was honoured with a "Lifetime Achievement Award" by the state of [[New Jersey]] in United States.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Veteran actor Dharmendra honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award by New Jersey Senate and General Assembly |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/hindi/veteran-actor-dharmendra-honoured-with-lifetime-achievement-award-by-new-jersey-senate-and-general-assembly/videoshow/79928845.cms |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155949/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/hindi/veteran-actor-dharmendra-honoured-with-lifetime-achievement-award-by-new-jersey-senate-and-general-assembly/videoshow/79928845.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[List of Hindi film actors]]

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{Cite book |last=Banerjea |first=Koushik |title=Bollyworld: Popular Indian Cinema Through A Transnational Lens |publisher=Sage |year=2005 |isbn=978-0-7619-3321-2 |editor-last=Kaur |editor-first=Raminder |chapter='Fight Club': Aesthetics, Hybridisation and the Construction of Rogue Masculinities in ''Sholay'' and ''Deewar'' |editor-last2=Sinha |editor-first2=Ajay J |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DGtNhQsLl7wC&pg=PA176 }}
* {{Cite book |last=Chopra |first=Anupama |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p8oM0k2UNzMC |title=Sholay&nbsp;– The Making of a Classic |publisher=Penguin Books, India |year=2000 |isbn=0-14-029970-X |access-date=15 July 2016 |archive-date=9 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009030303/http://books.google.com/books?id=p8oM0k2UNzMC |url-status=live }}
* {{Cite book |last1=Elliott |first1=Emory |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rvPP_xmUwyUC&pg=PA37 |title=Global migration, social change, and cultural transformation |last2=Payne |first2=Jasmine |last3=Ploesch |first3=Patricia |publisher=Macmillan |year=2007 |isbn=978-0-230-60054-6 |access-date=15 July 2016 |archive-date=11 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111233124/http://books.google.com/books?id=rvPP_xmUwyUC&pg=PA37 |url-status=live }}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* {{Instagram}}
* {{IMDb name}}
* {{Rotten Tomatoes}}
* {{BH person}}

{{FilmfareLifetimeAchievementAward}}
{{PadmaBhushanAwardRecipients 2010–19}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Dharmendra}}
[[Category:1935 births]]
[[Category:2025 deaths]]
[[Category:Indian male film actors]]
[[Category:Male actors in Hindi cinema]]
[[Category:Filmfare Awards winners]]
[[Category:Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award winners]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:Male actors from Mumbai]]
[[Category:Film producers from Mumbai]]
[[Category:Hindi film producers]]
[[Category:Producers who won the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment National Film Award]]
[[Category:Indian actor-politicians]]
[[Category:Politicians from Mumbai]]
[[Category:India MPs 2004–2009]]
[[Category:Lok Sabha members from Rajasthan]]
[[Category:Bharatiya Janata Party politicians from Rajasthan]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Padma Bhushan in arts]]
[[Category:People from Ludhiana district]]
[[Category:People from Punjab Province (British India)]]
[[Category:Punjabi Hindus]]
[[Category:Arya Samajis]]
[[Category:Indian Hindus]]