The world of Indian cinema lost one of its most beloved icons when veteran actor Dharmendra passed away at age 89. While millions admired his successful transition from romantic hero to action superstar, few knew about the personal battles that shaped his life behind the scenes.
The Moment That Haunted Him Forever
In a revealing interview on Aap Ki Adalat, Dharmendra shared one of his most painful memories from his younger days. The actor confessed that alcohol and anger once clouded his judgment so severely that he grabbed his own father by the collar.
"I was young and foolish... but life has a way of humbling you," the emotional actor reflected during the conversation. "I learnt my lessons the hard way." This moment remained one of his biggest regrets throughout his life.
12 Bottles on the Sets of Sholay
Another shocking revelation came from the making of the iconic film Sholay, where Dharmendra's drinking habits reached their peak. During an extended shooting schedule, the actor secretly consumed from the cameraman's stock of beer bottles meant to help the crew get through long working hours.
"When the production staff told me that I had consumed 12 bottles, I was shocked," Dharmendra remembered. The incident became legendary in Bollywood circles, illustrating the depth of his struggle with alcohol during that period.
Poetic Reflections on His Struggles
When questioned about his drinking habits, Dharmendra responded with his signature poetic flair. "Love killed me, alcohol killed me, and I won't find anyone else who can match you," he stated philosophically.
He further added, "If there were no alcohol, there would be no love — life would be a different life," suggesting the complex relationship between his personal experiences and his substance use.
Remembering the Complete Legacy
Despite these personal challenges, Dharmendra built an extraordinary career spanning decades. The actor, who lived at his Juhu residence, remained active in films until his final days. His recent appearances included Karan Johar's Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.
Fans will have one final opportunity to see the legendary actor on the big screen in the upcoming film Ikkis. His journey from a young, struggling actor to the beloved "He-Man" of Hindi cinema remains one of Bollywood's most inspiring stories, marked by both professional triumphs and personal redemption.
