Darling of India

The spontaneous outpouring of grief on the passing away of cine-star Dharmendra, has been overwhelming. Ordinary citizens and all the movie stars in Bollywood, have spoken of or posted their heartfelt memories.

There are many reasons for Dharmendra’s fabulous fan following. First, Dharmendra embodied a dream, an aspiration. The son of a humble school teacher in a village, he had no contacts or family in the cinema industry. However, he was determined to be an actor. He had talent. So, he came to Bombay, worked in a garage and also pursued a film career. At the age of 25, he acted in his first film, as the hero.

Second, in his first few films he played the sensitive roles of a poet or a writer. He did not seek glamour. He was content to do self-effacing roles. He wore everyday costumes. He was unassuming and natural in his acting. This endeared him to the masses.

Third, Dharmendra could reinvent himself. In the 1980s when Indian youngsters were becoming aggressive and demanding, he transformed himself. From the sensitive poet-type roles in the 1960s and 1970s, he became the “He-Man “of India, with strong muscles, who could hammer the villains in any movie.

Fourth, Dharmendra always remained humble and modest. He wore his success easily. He showed no arrogance. He did not raise his demands and rates, as he grew successful and popular. Even when his movies became blockbusters, he refused to escalate his fees. He continued being kind and generous to everyone. Hence, Dharmendra became the darling of India.

Rajendra Aneja,

Mumbai, India