From Garage to Glory: Dharmendra's Humble Beginnings
Veteran actor Dharmendra, currently hospitalized in serious but stable condition, once faced immense struggles during his early days in Mumbai, including sleeping in a garage and working extra hours at a factory to survive.
The Padma Bhushan awardee, who dominated Indian cinema through the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, recently had his emotional journey revisited through old television appearances that showcased his remarkable transformation from a struggling newcomer to one of Bollywood's most beloved stars.
The Struggle Years in Mumbai
During a televised appearance on a singing reality show, the actor known as Bollywood's He-Man opened up about his challenging early days in the city of dreams. The emotional moment occurred when contestants performed Kal Ki Haseen Mulaqat Ke Liye from his 1976 film Charas.
"In my earlier days, I used to live in a garage because I didn't have a proper home in Mumbai," Dharmendra revealed during the show. He further explained that to make ends meet, he worked in a drilling firm for ₹200 per month and frequently did overtime to earn additional money.
Emotional Reflection on Dreams Fulfilled
In a viral clip from 2019's Superstar Singer, Dharmendra became visibly emotional as the show documented his incredible journey in the film industry. The actor appeared on the program alongside his son Sunny Deol and grandson Karan Deol.
"Yahi mai khwab dekhta tha yahan aane ke. Us pul pe jaata hun to us pul se kehta hu ki Dharmendra tu actor ban gaya yaar!" an emotional Dharmendra told the host, expressing how he still visits a particular bridge and marvels at how his dreams came true.
He added, "Us pul se ja ke kehta hu ki mere khwab pure ho gaye," highlighting his gratitude for achieving his childhood aspirations of becoming a movie star.
Roots in Punjab and Emotional Connections
The veteran actor also shared heartfelt memories of his childhood village in Punjab's Ludhiana district, emphasizing his deep connection to his roots. "Ye gaaon ki mitti ke kann kann se juta hun. Hum waha partition se pehle se rehte the," he emotionally stated, describing himself as part of the Sanewal soil.
Dharmendra expressed profound gratitude to the show makers for presenting him with a video from his village, saying "Mai to jazbaati insaan hun, tum mujhe waha le gaye jaha mere jazbaat ubhar ubhar ke baahar aa rahe the," acknowledging how the footage brought his emotions to the surface.
Legacy of a Bollywood Legend
Dharmendra's remarkable career spans decades, with iconic performances in classic films that have become part of Indian cinema history. His most notable works include:
- Phool Aur Patthar
- Anupama
- Seeta Aur Geeta
- The legendary Sholay
Later in his career, the actor turned producer with successful films like Ghayal and Yamla Pagla Deewana 2, further cementing his legacy in the Indian film industry.
As the veteran actor remains under medical care, his inspiring journey from sleeping in a Mumbai garage to becoming one of Bollywood's most respected figures continues to motivate aspiring actors across the nation.
