Here’s a look at 10 unforgettable films that highlight the brilliance of the original He-Man of Bollywood.
1. Sholay (1975)
A film that needs no introduction, Sholay just celebrated its golden jubilee and remains a defining moment in the careers of both Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan. Dharmendra’s Veeru was the heartbeat of the film — playful, emotional, loyal, and instantly lovable. His chemistry with Bachchan’s stoic Jai set the benchmark for on-screen bromance.
From the iconic drunk scene to the unforgettable dialogue, “Basanti! Inn kutton ke saamne mat naachna,”
Veeru remains one of Hindi cinema’s most memorable characters.
2. Chupke Chupke (1975)
The same year, Dharmendra proved his comic genius in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s classic comedy, Chupke Chupke. As Parimal Tripathi, a soft-spoken botany professor who pretends to be a Hindi-obsessed driver named Pyare Mohan, he delivered one of his most endearing performances.
With co-stars Sharmila Tagore, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bhaduri, and Om Prakash, this film continues to be a masterclass in clean, clever humour.
3. Anupama (1966)
Dharmendra and Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s first collaboration was a gem. Playing Ashok, a sensitive writer who helps a shy and emotionally withdrawn Uma (Sharmila Tagore) find her voice, Dharmendra embodied subtlety and compassion.
Mukherjee, who later called Dharmendra his “favourite actor,” cast him repeatedly in films like Majhli Didi, Guddu, and Chaitali.
4. Satyakam (1969)
Often hailed as one of Dharmendra’s finest performances, Satyakam is a deeply philosophical film about integrity and idealism. His role as Satyapriya Acharya showcased maturity, vulnerability, and moral struggle in a way rarely seen in mainstream cinema.
The film won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, and Dharmendra's performance remains a benchmark for actors even today.
5. Seeta Aur Geeta (1972)
Reuniting with the Sholay team, Dharmendra played Raka, the charming love interest of Seeta. His on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini was at its peak, solidifying them as one of Bollywood’s most iconic pairs.
The duo went on to star in more than two dozen films, becoming fan favourites throughout the 70s and 80s.
6. Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)
This Nasir Hussain blockbuster popularized the “lost brothers” trope in Hindi cinema. Dharmendra played the eldest brother determined to reunite his family after tragedy strikes.
The emotional storyline, gripping action, and the evergreen title track turned the film into a commercial and cultural milestone.
7. Pratigya (1975)
In this action-comedy produced by Dharmendra himself, he portrayed Ajit, a man seeking revenge for his parents' murder at the hands of a ruthless dacoit. The film was packed with action and hilarious moments, including the hugely popular song: “Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana.”
This role further strengthened his status as a mass entertainer.
8. Dharam Veer (1977)
A grand masala entertainer, Dharam Veer featured Dharmendra and Jeetendra as separated twins who unknowingly become best friends. Filled with romance, royalty, betrayal, and brotherhood, it became a massive hit.
The song “Saat Ajoobe Iss Duniya Mein” remains a fan favourite.
9. Apne / Yamla Pagla Deewana (2007 / 2011)
Dharmendra’s production house Vijayta Films brought the Deol family together in these emotional and comedic entertainers.
Apne (2007) showcased the heartfelt bond between Dharmendra and his sons, Sunny and Bobby, in an emotional sports drama.
Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) tapped into their real-life camaraderie, delivering a hilarious joyride inspired by the iconic Pratigya song.
Both films were huge hits and resonated deeply with fans who adored seeing the Deols together.
10. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023)
In Karan Johar’s award-winning romantic drama, Dharmendra delivered a tender, touching performance as the grandfather battling Alzheimer’s.
His long-lost love story with Jamini (played by Shabana Azmi) became the emotional core of the film. Their sweet, old-school romance — including a nostalgic on-screen kiss — won millions of hearts and reminded audiences why Dharmendra is a timeless legend.
From intense dramas to iconic comedies, from romantic classics to family entertainers, Dharmendra’s body of work stands as one of the richest in Indian cinema. His legacy continues to shine — not just through his films, but through the generations of actors and fans he inspires.
