Dharmendra: The Hero Who Redefined Heroism

Long before Amitabh Bachchan became the angry young man and Rajesh Khanna was India’s biggest heartthrob, there was Dharmendra. He was the kind of guy women would swoon over, men would feel they could lose a wrestling match to, and mothers would want you to bring home. He had that effortless charm people of a certain era do. He clearly worked out and looked strong as hell, but also had a softness that convinced you he was the ultimate romantic hero. 

Most youngsters might remember him for that surprise kiss in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023), but the real ones will tell you: heroes had nothing to aspire to until Dharmendra landed on the scene. Though he wasn’t perfect — not all agreed with his off-screen choices — he reminded us that grit and dreaming big could take you far.