Dharmendra’s first film was released in 1960, his fee was paid by…, first salary was…


Dharmendra’s passion

Dharmendra was born on December 8, 1935, in the small village of Nasrili in Punjab. He had a deep passion for films since childhood. He was fascinated by the world of cinema and dreamed of one day becoming a part of it.

National New Talent Contest

He won the National New Talent Contest organized by Filmfare, which gave him the confidence to take a bold step. Soon after, he moved to Mumbai (then Bombay) to try his luck in films.

Dharmendra’s debut

Dharmendra began his film career in 1960 with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. In this film, he shared the screen with Balraj Sahni, Kumkum, and Usha Kiran.

Dharmendra’s first salary

Dharmendra’s first salary still astonishes many fans. He received a mere 51 rupees for his first film. This amount was contributed by three filmmakers, each giving him 17 rupees.

Dharmendra’s party

When Dharmendra received his first film fee, he celebrated like anyone else. He went to a roadside eatery and threw a party for his friends.

Dharmendra’s films

After this, Dharmendra never looked back. He starred in timeless films like Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Sholay, and quickly achieved superstar status.

Dharmendra is still active

Dharmendra is still active in films more than six decades later. According to reports, he charged ₹1 crore for his role in Karan Johar’s film Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani.

Dharmendra’s next movie

Dharmendra will next be seen in Ikkis, a war drama film starring Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson, Agastya Nanda, in the lead role. Jaideep Ahlawat is also a key part of the film. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film is scheduled for release in December this year.