The passing of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra has left an irreplaceable void in Indian cinema, but his candid revelations about his personal struggles with alcohol continue to inspire millions. In a heartfelt 2007 interview that has gained renewed attention, the veteran star opened up about his eight-year journey of sobriety and how quitting alcohol fundamentally transformed his life.
The Turning Point: A Life-Changing Decision
Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89, had been remarkably transparent about his battle with alcohol addiction. Speaking to Lehren Retro in 2007, the actor revealed that he had been completely sober for eight years, having quit drinking in 1999. This decision, he emphasized, was one that completely redirected the course of his life and career.
"I used to drink heavily, but I have realized that it doesn't go with me," Dharmendra confessed during the interview. The actor expressed deep regret about his drinking days, stating that alcohol had significantly impacted both his physical appearance and mental capabilities. He believed that without alcohol, he could have achieved even greater heights in his illustrious career.
The Struggle and Realization
Dharmendra's journey to sobriety wasn't instantaneous. He admitted to multiple failed attempts at quitting alcohol, with periods of abstinence lasting six to eight months before he would relapse. "This kept going on," he recalled, highlighting the challenging nature of addiction recovery.
The actor's moment of clarity came during a flight to Los Angeles, where he made a firm commitment to himself. "I told myself that I would not touch it on the plane. I took it as a test for myself on that plane to LA," he shared. This moment became the catalyst for his permanent transformation, drawing parallels to the determination he had shown earlier in life when pursuing his acting career.
Life After Alcohol: A New Perspective
Dharmendra described his post-alcohol life as significantly more enjoyable and fulfilling. "Now, when I have left drinking, I feel like I enjoy more than what I used to do," he revealed, adding in Hindi, "Pike sharab khud se door ho gaye thay, chhod ke ise apne paas aa gaye hain" (I moved away from alcohol myself, and by leaving it, it has come closer to me).
The veteran actor reflected that alcohol had been masking his true strength and potential. "It is the biggest strength which I was covering with artificial things and all that," he stated, emphasizing how sobriety had uncovered his natural capabilities that were previously suppressed by alcohol dependency.
Dharmendra's candid discussion about his addiction struggles and subsequent recovery stands as a powerful testament to the possibility of transformation at any stage of life. His legacy extends beyond his cinematic achievements to include this inspiring personal victory that continues to resonate with fans and those battling similar challenges.
