In a remarkably candid revelation, veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra has explained why, despite immense popularity, he never clinched the title of the industry's number one actor. The actor's introspective comments came from a pivotal 1986 interview with The Times of India, a time when his career was experiencing a significant revival.
A Dream, Not a Profession
Dharmendra offered a profound insight into his approach to acting, which he believes was the core reason he never reached the top spot. He stated that he never treated acting as a profession, but rather saw it as a "dream-come-true". This perspective stood in stark contrast to the relentless drive he felt was necessary to become a superstar. "To be a superstar you have to be super ambitious," he conceded, implying that his own passion was rooted in artistry rather than competitive ambition.
A Career of Love and Longevity
By the time of this July 1986 interview, Dharmendra had already been a fixture in Hindi films for over 26 years. He made his celebrated debut in the 1960 film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. Despite his fortunes being on a perceived downturn at that time, the interview captured him during a period of professional resurgence. The star reflected on his entire journey, from being a "first-class student" to entering the world of cinema. He also did not shy away from discussing more personal topics that shaped his public image, including his drinking habits and the construction of his iconic "he-man" persona on screen.
The People's Champion
Ultimately, Dharmendra's reflection was not one of regret but of gratitude. He emphasized that while he may not have been the industry's number one, he was always "loved by the people". This public adoration, earned through decades of memorable performances and a genuine connection with his audience, appears to have been his true measure of success. His story is a unique chapter in Bollywood history, highlighting a path defined by passion over podium finishes.
