Dharmendra

File:Dharmendra with father.jpg

Dharmendra was born as Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol{{cite web |title=Affidavit - Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol |url=https://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC1.html |website=ceorajasthan.nic.in |access-date=15 August 2023 |language=hi |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141015101137/https://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC1.html |archive-date=15 October 2014}} in Nasrali, a village in Ludhiana district, Punjab, British India on 8 December 1935. He was born to Kewal Krishan and Satwant Kaur{{cite news|title=Dharmendra talks about his mother Satwant Kaur: She wanted me to learn how to manage money|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-talks-about-his-mother-satwant-kaur-she-wanted-me-to-learn-how-to-manage-money-28517|date=21 January 2020|newspaper=The Tribune|archive-date=27 January 2024|access-date=15 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240127215948/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-talks-about-his-mother-satwant-kaur-she-wanted-me-to-learn-how-to-manage-money-28517|url-status=live}} into a Punjabi Jat family.{{cite news |last1=Kashyap |first1=Archita |title=I am a farmer's son: Dharmendra |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/i-am-a-farmers-son-dharmendra/article7361469.ece |access-date=3 November 2019 |work=The Hindu |date=27 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191103093244/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/i-am-a-farmers-son-dharmendra/article7361469.ece|quote=I am a Jat. Jats love their land and their farms. I spend most of my time in my farmhouse at Lonavla these days.|archive-date=3 November 2019 |url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Dharmendra pained to see Punjabi girls hitting the bottle |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/dharmendra-pained-to-see-punjabi-girls-hitting-the-bottle/articleshow/25572225.cms|newspaper=Times of India|date=11 November 2013|quote=Bollywood superstar Dharmendra said as a Punjabi he was pained to hear that even girls in the state are now hitting the bottle.}} His ancestral village is Dangon, near Pakhowal Tehsil Raikot, Ludhiana.{{cite web|title=Dharmendra nostalgic on visiting Dangon|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2013/20131106/ldh1.htm#8|date=6 November 2013|work=Ludhiana Tribune|access-date=15 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304110402/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2013/20131106/ldh1.htm#8|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}

He spent his early life in the village of Sahnewal and studied at Government Senior Secondary School at Lalton Kalan, Ludhiana, where his father was the village school headmaster.{{cite web|last=Sumbly|first=Vimal|title=From Ludhiana to Bikaner in support of Dharmendra|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2004/20040503/ldh1.htm#2|date=2 May 2004|work=Ludhiana Tribune|access-date=16 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303181855/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2004/20040503/ldh1.htm#2|archive-date=3 March 2016|url-status=live}} He did his matriculation in Phagwara in 1952.{{cite web|title=Affidavit|url=http://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC5.html|work=Chief Electoral Officer, Rajasthan|access-date=16 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304123615/http://ceorajasthan.nic.in/Affidavits_pc/2/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN/DEOL%20DHARMENDRA%20KEWAL%20KRISHAN_SC5.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}} In those days, schools of Punjab came under Panjab University, Chandigarh.

File:Bobby_Deol_Dharmendra_Sunny_Deol_still10.jpg (on left), Sunny Deol (right hand side)]]

Dharmendra's first marriage was to Prakash Kaur at the age of 19 in 1954, before he entered film industry.{{cite news |title=Bobby Deol Reportedly Attacked Hema Malini with a Knife After Dharmendra's 2nd Marriage; Here's What Prakash Kaur Said on the Matter! |url=https://daily.bhaskar.com/news/ENT-BOW-dharmendra-hema-controversy-5440408-PHO.html |access-date=13 February 2020 |work=dailybhaskar |date=16 October 2016 |language=en |archive-date=13 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213180023/https://daily.bhaskar.com/news/ENT-BOW-dharmendra-hema-controversy-5440408-PHO.html |url-status=dead }} He had two sons from this marriage, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, both successful film actors; and two daughters, Vijeeta and Ajeeta.

After moving to Bombay and entering films, Dharmendra married Hema Malini, which caused controversy at the time since he was already married. Rumours began to circulate about Dharmendra and Hema Malini converting to Islam for this marriage.{{cite news|title=Dharmendra or "Dilawar Khan?"|url=http://www.milligazette.com/Archives/2004/16-30Jun04-Print-Edition/163006200433.htm|access-date=18 June 2016|publisher=Milli Gazette|date=30 June 2004|quote=When his political rivals brought the issue to the notice of election authorities and the general public, he denied his conversion to Islam and change of name.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624093107/http://www.milligazette.com/Archives/2004/16-30Jun04-Print-Edition/163006200433.htm|archive-date=24 June 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/celebrities-who-converted-to-islam/photostory/30985640.cms|title=Celebrities who converted to Islam|work=The Times of India|access-date=23 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227231411/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/Celebrities-who-converted-to-Islam/photostory/30985640.cms|archive-date=27 February 2017|url-status=live}} In 2004, during a political campaign, when the rumours began to circulate again, Dharmendra asserted that he remained a Hindu,{{Cite web |last=Suhrawardy |first=Nilofar |date=19 April 2004 |title=Dharmendra's Past Haunts His Present |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/247932 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040708094935/http://www.arabnews.com/?page=4§ion=0&article=43427&d=19&m=4&y=2004 |archive-date=8 July 2004 |website=Arab News |quote=I am a Hindu. The question of my having ever changed religion does not exist.}} the family being Arya Samaji.{{Cite news |title=Deols don't believe in superstitions |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/deols-dont-believe-in-superstitions/articleshow/4680292.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241210085704/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/deols-dont-believe-in-superstitions/articleshow/4680292.cms |archive-date=10 December 2024 |work=The Times of India |date=21 June 2009 |access-date=29 December 2024 |quote=They [Dharmendra and Sunny Deol] said, 'We keep any kind of superstition at bay. Being followers of the Arya Samaj system, we bring in positive energy by doing good deeds for the good of others.'}} He and Malini starred together in a number of movies in the early 1970s, including Sholay.{{cite news|title=Hema Malini on 35th wedding anniversary|url=http://www.mid-day.com/articles/love-is-togetherness-hema-malini-on-35th-wedding-anniversary/16181170|access-date=2 May 2015|work=Mid-Day|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170921114842/http://www.mid-day.com/articles/love-is-togetherness-hema-malini-on-35th-wedding-anniversary/16181170|archive-date=21 September 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Personal life|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=4&view=4|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126142727/http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=4&view=4|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 January 2013|work=The Indian Express|access-date=2 July 2011}} The couple has two daughters, Esha Deol (an actress, born in 1981) and Ahana Deol (an assistant director, born in 1985). His grandson, Bobby Deol's son, is also named "Dharam", after him.{{cite news |last1=Goyal |first1=Divya |title=Viral: The Internet Is Crushing On Bobby Deol's Son Aryaman |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/viral-the-internet-is-crushing-on-bobby-deols-son-aryaman-1984709 |access-date=27 July 2022 |work=NDTV |date=29 January 2019 |archive-date=29 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190129114638/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/viral-the-internet-is-crushing-on-bobby-deols-son-aryaman-1984709 |url-status=live }}

Dharmendra has a farmhouse in Lonavala, where he now generally resides. His family resides in Juhu, Mumbai.{{Cite web |date=2 June 2021 |title=Dharmendra shares idyllic early morning views from his farmhouse. Watch video |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-shares-idyllic-early-morning-views-from-his-farmhouse-watch-video-101622608247977.html |access-date=22 August 2023 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=राजाओं जैसी जिंदगी जीते हैं धर्मेंद्र, देखिए उनके 100 एकड़ में फैले आलीशान फार्महाउस की INSIDE तस्वीरें |url=https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-lavish-100-acre-lonavala-farmhouse-inside-pictures |access-date=11 June 2024 |website=Amar Ujala |language=hi |archive-date=11 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611123433/https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood/dharmendra-lavish-100-acre-lonavala-farmhouse-inside-pictures |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=Dharmendra Farmhouse Pics: मुंबई की भीड़ से दूर लोनावला में बना है धर्मेंद्र का आलीशान फार्महाउस देखिए Inside तस्वीरें |url=https://www.abplive.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-lonavala-luxury-farmhouse-inside-photos-see-here-2297662 |access-date=11 June 2024 |website=ABP Live |date=2 January 2023 |language=hi |archive-date=11 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611123616/https://www.abplive.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-lonavala-luxury-farmhouse-inside-photos-see-here-2297662 |url-status=live }} In 2023, Dharmendra expressed that Bollywood neglected his family and never appreciated Deol family's contribution to Indian cinema.{{Cite web |date=19 August 2023 |title=इंडस्ट्रीचं देओल कुटुंबाकडे दुर्लक्ष? अनेक वर्षांनंतर धर्मेंद्र अखेर व्यक्त झालेच |trans-title=Industry neglected Deol family? After many years Dharmendra expressed himself. |url=https://www.tv9marathi.com/entertainment/industry-never-recognised-deol-family-said-dharmendra-1003512.html |access-date=22 August 2023 |website=TV9 Marathi |language=mr |archive-date=22 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230822103214/https://www.tv9marathi.com/entertainment/industry-never-recognised-deol-family-said-dharmendra-1003512.html |url-status=live }}

Dharmendra was the winner of Filmfare magazine's nationally organised new talent award and went to Mumbai from Punjab to work in the movie. However, it was never made. He later made his film debut in 1960 with Arjun Hingorani's romantic drama Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Romantic hero|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=1&view=1|work=The Indian Express|access-date=16 August 2010}}{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article868667.ece|title=My First Break: Dharmendra|author=Ranjana Das Gupta|work=The Hindu|date=4 November 2010|access-date=8 December 2011|location=Chennai, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111204212734/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article868667.ece|archive-date=4 December 2011|url-status=live}} The film largely went unnoticed and as a result, did not perform that well at the box office. He saw his first commercial success in 1961 with Ramesh Saigal's Shola Aur Shabnam and followed it with hits, such as Mohan Kumar's Anpadh (1962) and Bimal Roy's Bandini (1963), which won National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.{{cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=167&catName=MTk2MQ==|title=Box Office 1961|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207075740/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=167&catName=MTk2MQ== |archive-date=7 February 2009 }}{{Cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=168&catName=MTk2Mg==|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922021831/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=168&catName=MTk2Mg%3D%3D|url-status=dead|title=BoxOffice India.com|archivedate=22 September 2012}}{{cite book|title=International film prizes: an encyclopedia|author=Tad Bentley Hammer|publisher=Garland|year=1991|isbn=0-8240-7099-2|page=[https://archive.org/details/internationalfil00hamm/page/223 223]|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/internationalfil00hamm/page/223}}

His breakthrough came in 1964 when he co-starred alongside Rajendra Kumar and Saira Banu in another of Mohan Kumar's directional venture Ayee Milan Ki Bela.{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-columns/mgr-and-jayalalitha-in-oru-thai-makkal-1971/article8346001.ece |title=Oru Thai Makkal (1971) Tamil |last=Guy |first=Randor |date=12 March 2016 |work=The Hindu |access-date=3 March 2019 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=20 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180120235834/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-columns/mgr-and-jayalalitha-in-oru-thai-makkal-1971/article8346001.ece |url-status=live }} It went on to become a superhit and despite playing the antagonist, Dharmendra was noticed by audience and received a nomination in the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor category.{{cite news |title=Dharmendra gets overwhelmed with love from fans on 88th birthday, says 'pyaare pyaare tohfe aye hain' |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-gets-overwhelmed-with-love-from-fans-on-88th-birthday-says-pyaare-pyaare-tohfe-aye-hain-570342 |work=The Tribune |date=9 December 2023 |access-date=19 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417174339/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/entertainment/dharmendra-gets-overwhelmed-with-love-from-fans-on-88th-birthday-says-pyaare-pyaare-tohfe-aye-hain-570342 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|url = https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners|title = Winners list|date = 2023|access-date = 24 March 2024|archive-date = 4 February 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180204095338/https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners|url-status = live}} That same year, he played the lead role in Chetan Anand's war-drama Haqeeqat.{{Cite web|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/frames-per-second-music-for-tragedy-120061901220_1.html|title=Frames per Second: Music for tragedy|access-date=18 February 2024|archive-date=18 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240218163901/https://www.business-standard.com/article/opinion/frames-per-second-music-for-tragedy-120061901220_1.html|url-status=live}} Based on the Sino-Indian War of 1962, the film proved to be a major critical and commercial success, eventually emerging a superhit with one of its song "Ab Tumhare Hawaale Watan Saathiyon", a solo by Mohammed Rafi becoming hugely popular among the masses.{{cite news |title=FLASHBACK 8 July 2022 (From our issue dated 12 July 1997 |url=https://filminformation.com/featured/flashback-8-july-2022-from-our-issue-dated-12th-july-1997 |work=Film Information |date=8 July 2022 |access-date=19 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417200402/https://filminformation.com/featured/flashback-8-july-2022-from-our-issue-dated-12th-july-1997/ |url-status=live }}{{cite book|author=Sujata Dev|title=Mohammed Rafi Voice Of A Nation|date=October 2015|publisher=OM Books International|isbn=978-9380070971}} In 1965, he had another major success in Ram Maheshwari's romantic drama Kaajal.{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=171&catName=MTk2NQ== |title=Box office 1965 |publisher=Boxofficeindia.com |access-date=9 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210134027/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=171&catName=MTk2NQ== |archive-date=10 February 2012 }} The film also had Meena Kumari, Raaj Kumar and Padmini in the lead.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2010/11/19/stories/2010111951391100.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131216045542/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2010/11/19/stories/2010111951391100.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 December 2013 |title=Kaajal (1965) |date=19 November 2012 |access-date=9 January 2012 |newspaper= The Hindu |author=Deepak Mahaan}}

In 1966, Dharmendra reunited with Kumari for O. P. Ralhan's Phool Aur Patthar. The film topped the box office chart in 1966, becoming a major blockbuster and making him a saleable star.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-remembers-op-ralhan-reveals-why-he-took-off-his-shirt-in-phool-aur-patthar|title=Dharmendra remembers OP Ralhan, reveals why he took off his shirt in 'Phool Aur Patthar'|first=Subhash K.|last=Jha|date=21 August 2020|website=National Herald|access-date=16 December 2024|archive-date=27 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240227212341/https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-remembers-op-ralhan-reveals-why-he-took-off-his-shirt-in-phool-aur-patthar|url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Top Actors |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219165002/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors |archive-date=19 February 2008 |access-date=24 April 2020 |work=Box Office India}} He

received his first nomination in the Filmfare Award for Best Actor category for the film.{{cite web|url=http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/366575.cms|title=The Filmfare Awards Nominations – 1966|publisher=The Times Group|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040323040505/http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/366575.cms|archive-date=23 March 2004}} The success of Phool Aur Patthar was followed by hits in Mamta, Devar, Anupama and Aaye Din Bahar Ke, the same year.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=5792|title=Akshay Kumar Has A Historic Year|date=8 January 2020|access-date=23 April 2024|archive-date=26 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200226204807/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=5792|url-status=live}} He was also given a souvenir at the 14th National Film Awards in recognition of his performance in Anupama.{{cite news|title=Film awards presented|agency=Press Trust of India|publisher=The Indian Express|date=11 October 1967|pages=7}} The next year, he worked in commercially unsuccessful, but critically acclaimed films like - Dulhan Ek Raat Ki opposite Nutan and Majhli Didi, Chandan Ka Palna, both opposite Kumari.{{cite web |last1=Ghosh |first1=Oindrila |title=Bollywood's Long Love Affair with Thomas Hardy's Novels: Adaptations and Cultural Appropriations |url=https://victorianweb.org/authors/hardy/ghosh.html |website=Victorian Web}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/actor-sachin-feted-as-ambassador-of-urdu/articleshow/103546974.cms|title=Actor Sachin feted as 'Ambassador of Urdu'|newspaper=The Times of India |date=10 September 2023}} Dharmendra hit the big league in 1968 with Atma Ram's mystery thriller Shikar and Ramanand Sagar's spy thriller Ankhen.{{Cite news |title=ShikarUA |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-details/shikar/movieshow/61335835.cms |access-date=6 December 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=7 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207184714/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-details/shikar/movieshow/61335835.cms |url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/sunday-times/deep-focus/gun-ho-in-bollywood/articleshow/12312314.cms?pcode=other|title=Gun-ho in Bollywood|newspaper=The Times of India|date=18 March 2012|archive-date=3 March 2024|access-date=3 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303144704/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/sunday-times/deep-focus/gun-ho-in-bollywood/articleshow/12312314.cms?pcode=other|url-status=live}} Both the films opened to positive audience response and proved to be blockbusters at the box office with the latter being the top–earning film that year. His other commercially successful releases of 1968 were – T. Prakash Rao's drama film Izzat (in which he played a double role) and Amar Kumar's romantic drama Mere Hamdam Mere Dost.{{cite news |last1=Sharma |first1=Devesh |title=We trace Jayalalithaa's Bollywood debut, Izzat (1968) |url=https://www.filmfare.com/features/we-trace-jayalalithaas-bollywood-debut-izzat-1968_-17233.html |access-date=24 February 2021 |work=Filmfare |date=5 December 2016 }} The following year, saw the emergence of superstar Rajesh Khanna, who stormed the nation with back-to-back blockbusters in Aradhana and Do Raaste.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=3385|title=Ittefaq And Thor Battle It Out This Week|date=2 November 2017|access-date=2 March 2024|archive-date=22 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240122202707/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=3385|url-status=live}} With his rise, a number of stars went through career decline.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/314356/from-artistes-brands.html|title=From artistes to brands|date=23 February 2013|access-date=21 January 2024|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131093856/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/314356/from-artistes-brands.html|url-status=live}} During this phase, Dharmendra and Dev Anand were the only actors who remained unaffected by Khanna's popularity. In 1969, he had a superhit in Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, followed by three more successful films, which were - Yakeen, Pyar Hi Pyar and Aadmi Aur Insaan.{{Cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/worth-their-weight-in-gold/ |title=Worth Their Weight in Gold! - Box Office India : India's premier film trade magazine |work=Box Office India : India’s premier film trade magazine |date=November 2011 |access-date=24 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915183938/http://boxofficeindia.co.in/worth-their-weight-in-gold |archive-date=15 September 2017}} Dharmendra also received immense acclaim for his portrayal of a righteous man in Hrishikesh Mukherjee's social drama film Satyakam, which is widely considered to be his career-best performance by fans as well as critics and went on to win National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.{{cite web |url=http://iffi.nic.in/Dff2011/Frm17thNFAAward.aspx?PdfName=17NFA.pdf |title=Directorate of Film Festival |publisher=Iffi.nic.in |access-date=23 July 2012 |archive-date=15 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015233600/http://iffi.nic.in/Dff2011/Frm17thNFAAward.aspx?PdfName=17NFA.pdf |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|title=Satyakam: Dharmendra's career best role|website=rediff.com|access-date=8 August 2023|archive-date=4 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230304051029/https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|url-status=live}}

In 1970, Dharmendra delivered four major successes and formed a hit pair with Hema Malini. His first release was Satyen Bose's crime drama Jeevan Mrityu. An adaptation of Alexandre Dumas's novel The Count of Monte Cristo, it proved to be major critical and commercial success, eventually emerging a blockbuster and one of the top earners of 1970.{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/jeevan-mrityu-1970/article6400941.ece|title=Jeevan Mrityu (1970)|work=The Hindu|author=Vijay Lokpally|date=11 September 2014|access-date=29 May 2024|archive-date=10 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230410215127/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/jeevan-mrityu-1970/article6400941.ece|url-status=live}} His next two films, Bhappi Sonie's Tum Haseen Main Jawan and Asit Sen's Sharafat, both opposite Malini proved to be superhits at the box office. This was followed by a flop in Ishq Par Zor Nahin alongside Sadhana and a hit in Kab? Kyoon? Aur Kahan? with Babita. His final release of that year was Raj Kapoor's magnum opus Mera Naam Joker (in which he played a supporting role). Although the film was a disaster at the time of release, it attained cult status in later years, with many critics hailing it as one of the best Indian films of all time.{{Cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/Consumer/j0uwEr1EQbbKoB83ASpASK/Ten-bigbudget-Bollywood-boxoffice-disasters.html|title=Ten big-budget Bollywood box-office disasters|first=Lata|last=Jha|date=28 September 2015|website=Live Mint|access-date=30 May 2020|archive-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127003908/https://www.livemint.com/Consumer/j0uwEr1EQbbKoB83ASpASK/Ten-bigbudget-Bollywood-boxoffice-disasters.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/cult-hindi-films-that-flopped/photostory/27856115.cms|title=Cult Hindi films that flopped|website=The Times of India|archive-date=18 January 2024|access-date=18 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240118105510/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/cult-hindi-films-that-flopped/photostory/27856115.cms|url-status=live}} In 1971, Dharmendra starred in Raj Khosla's action drama Mera Gaon Mera Desh.{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mera-gaon-mera-desh|title=Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971)|website=Rotten Tomatoes|access-date=16 March 2024|archive-date=16 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316211112/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mera-gaon-mera-desh|url-status=live}} The film went on to become an All Time Blockbuster and established his image of an action hero.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7382|title=An Action Hero Is Very Dull - Drishyam 2 Is One Horse Race|date=2 December 2022}} The large success of this film also made the industry shift from romantic to action films. Dharmendra received his second nomination in the Filmfare Award for Best Actor category for his performance in Mera Gaon Mera Desh.{{cite magazine |url=https://indiancine.ma/documents/QFY/3 |title=Starlights of the next issue |date=24 March 1972 |magazine=Filmfare |last=Karanjia |first=B. K. |author-link=B. K. Karanjia |volume=21 |page=7 |issue=6 |access-date=2 June 2021 |archive-date=2 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602214109/https://indiancine.ma/documents/QFY/3 |url-status=live }} His success continued in the following year with another massive blockbuster in Seeta Aur Geeta, a superhit in Raja Jani and a hit film, Samadhi to go with the major grossers.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6097|date=8 November 2020|title=Rewind - Thirty Five Years of Mard|access-date=27 February 2024|archive-date=8 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108093055/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6097|url-status=live}} The mass hysteria created by Mera Gaon Mera Desh in 1971, followed by back-to-back hits with Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani and Samadhi in 1972 took Dharmendra to the number 1 position among his contemporaries, thus making him a "superstar".{{citation|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=2882|title=Vinod Khanna Passes Away|publisher=Box Office India|date=27 April 2017|access-date=12 August 2024|archive-date=8 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008201610/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=2882|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7555|title=Pathaan And The SUPERSTARS Of Indian Cinema|date=8 February 2023|access-date=29 July 2024|archive-date=29 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729094616/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7555|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |date=17 April 2013 |title=100 Years of Indian Cinema: The 100 greatest Indian films of all time |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/photogallery/13200-19.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425234438/http://ibnlive.in.com/photogallery/13200-19.html |archive-date=25 April 2013 |access-date=12 February 2014 |website=IBN Live}}

1973 was the best year of Dharmendra's career with many successes. His first release, which was A. Bhimsingh's action crime film Loafer, emerged a superhit with its songs, including "Aaj Mausam Bada Be-Imaan", "Main Tere Ishq Mein", "Koi Shehri Babu" becoming immensely popular among the masses and making its soundtrack one of the best-selling Hindi film albums of the 1970s.{{cite news |last=Sebastian |first=Pradeep |date=16 August 2002 |title=Masala vs. genre |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2002/08/16/stories/2002081600920300.htm |work=The Hindu |access-date=29 October 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030704153626/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2002/08/16/stories/2002081600920300.htm |archive-date=4 July 2003 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/special/ninty-unforgettable-asha-bhosle-songs/20180908.htm|title=90 UNFORGETTABLE Asha Bhosle Songs|date=8 September 2023|access-date=16 March 2024|archive-date=16 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316211113/https://m.rediff.com/movies/special/ninty-unforgettable-asha-bhosle-songs/20180908.htm|url-status=live}} This was followed by mystery thriller Jheel Ke Us Paar and action drama Jugnu. While Jheel Ke Us Paar was a hit, the latter proved to be a blockbuster in India as well as Soviet Union, eventually taking 2nd spot at the box office in 1973.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7561|title=Worldwide Gross - The Russian And Chinese Factor|date=11 February 2023}} Owing to its huge success, Jugnu was also remade in Tamil and Telugu as Guru (1980).{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=12 August 2015|title=Sridevi: 5 times the actress bowled us with her performance|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/sridevi-5-times-the-actress-bowled-us-with-her-performance/etphotostory/48450778.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424051532/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/sridevi-5-times-the-actress-bowled-us-with-her-performance/etphotostory/48450778.cms|archive-date=24 April 2024|access-date=14 December 2020|website=The Times of India}} His next two releases were - Ravikant Nagaich's spy thriller Keemat and Adurthi Subba Rao's light-hearted drama film Jwaar Bhata.{{Cite news |date=22 September 2016 |title=Keemat (1973) |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/Keemat-1973/article14993419.ece |access-date=22 March 2022 |archive-date=28 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228034808/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/Keemat-1973/article14993419.ece |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Nadadhur |first1=Srivathsan |title=Daagudu Moothalu: The 'hidden' treasures unveiled |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/daagudu-moothalu-the-hidden-treasures-unveiled/article7561719.ece |access-date=8 September 2020 |work=The Hindu |date=20 August 2015 |archive-date=6 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206140748/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/daagudu-moothalu-the-hidden-treasures-unveiled/article7561719.ece |url-status=live }} Both the films received critical acclaim and emerged moderately successful. Towards the end of the year, Dharmendra appeared in Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Blackmail and Kahani Kismat Ki. Yaadon Ki Baaraat, directed by Nasir Hussain and written by Salim-Javed is widely identified as the first masala film of Indian cinema and proved to be another blockbuster for the actor as well as the second best-selling Bollywood album of the 1970s.{{cite news|date=30 March 2017|title=How film-maker Nasir Husain started the trend for Bollywood masala films|work=Hindustan Times|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/how-film-maker-nasir-husain-created-the-prototype-for-bollywood-masala-films/story-ckL6zPLHJFDYoupjFBtbfN.html|access-date=20 October 2017|archive-date=5 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190505013953/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/how-film-maker-nasir-husain-created-the-prototype-for-bollywood-masala-films/story-ckL6zPLHJFDYoupjFBtbfN.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Music Hits 1970-1979|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=282&catName=MTk3MC0xOTc5|publisher=Box Office India|date=5 February 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100205042855/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=282&catName=MTk3MC0xOTc5 | archive-date=5 February 2010 }} On the other hand, Vijay Anand's romantic thriller Blackmail was an unsuccessful venture critically and commercially, but reception later improved, with many calling it one of Anand's most underrated works.{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/Black-Mail-1973/article15006250.ece|title=Black Mail (1973)|first=Anuj|last=Kumar|date=30 September 2016|access-date=17 November 2021|website=Thehindu.com|archive-date=17 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117130920/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/Black-Mail-1973/article15006250.ece|url-status=live}} The song "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas" filmed on Dharmendra and Raakhee was a chartbuster and remains popular in modern culture.{{cite web|url=https://ndtv.in/bollywood/song-pal-pal-dil-ke-paas-from-film-blackmail-was-shot-without-recording-dharmendra-rakhee-movie-4523782|title=बिना रिकॉर्डिंग के कैसे शूट हुआ फिल्म ब्लैक मेल का सुपरहिट गाना 'पल पल दिल के पास तुम रहती हो', किस्सा है बेहद दिलचस्प|date=28 October 2023}} His final release of the year, Arjun Hingorani's actioner Kahani Kismat Ki continued his dream run and emerged a superhit at the box office.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/kahani-kismat-ki-1973/article8026032.ece|title=Kahani Kismat Ki (1973)|newspaper=The Hindu|date=24 December 2015|archive-date=16 March 2024|access-date=16 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240316211856/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/kahani-kismat-ki-1973/article8026032.ece|url-status=live}} The following year, Dharmendra added one more blockbuster in his kitty with Dulal Guha's social drama Dost co-starring Shatrughan Sinha and Hema Malini.{{Cite web |title=Rewind - Greatest Indian Film Sholay Is 43 Years Old |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4183|publisher=Box Office India}} The huge box office success of Dost was followed by moderate successes in Patthar Aur Payal and Resham Ki Dori. For his performance in the latter, Dharmendra received his fourth and final nomination in the Filmfare Award for Best Actor category.{{cite magazine |title=Filmfare Awards Winners From 1953 to 2024 |url=https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners |magazine=Filmfare |access-date=25 April 2024 |archive-date=4 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204095338/https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners |url-status=live }}

The 1975 Emergency had angered the public, and this helped films featuring the lead character revolting against corruption and establishment become successes. The shift from romantic and social movies to action-oriented multi-starrers changed the box office. The year saw the rise of another superstar, Amitabh Bachchan, but Dharmendra remained rock-steady and continued to deliver huge hits.{{cite web|url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/indepth-stories/dharmendra-bollywoods-dreamboat|title=Dharmendra, Hollywood's Dreamboat|date=8 December 2022|access-date=9 October 2024|archive-date=26 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230126143630/https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/indepth-stories/dharmendra-bollywoods-dreamboat|url-status=live}}

In 1975, Dharmendra appeared alongside Bachchan in two films. The first was Mukherjee's light-hearted comedy Chupke Chupke.{{cite book|author1=Gulzar|author2=Govind Nihalani|author3=Saibal Chatterjee|title=Encyclopaedia of Hindi Cinema|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8y8vN9A14nkC&pg=PT371|access-date=29 October 2012|year=2003|publisher=Popular Prakashan|isbn=978-81-7991-066-5|pages=371–}} It received positive response from critics and went on to become a hit at the box office.{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/hrishikesh-mukherjee-chupke-chupke-subtle-antidote-to-angry-young-man-era-7915586/|title=Hrishikesh Mukherjee's Chupke Chupke was the subtle antidote to the 'angry young man' era; a balance we have forgotten today|date=14 May 2022}} The second was Ramesh Sippy's actioner Sholay.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|pp=22–28}} It released on 15 August 1975, Indian Independence Day, in Bombay. Due to lackluster reviews and a lack of effective visual marketing tools, it saw poor financial returns in its first two weeks. However, from the third week onward, viewership picked up owing to positive word of mouth.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|p=169}} During the initial slow period, the director and writer considered re-shooting some scenes so that Amitabh Bachchan's character would not die. When business picked up, they abandoned this idea.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|p=164}} After additionally releasing a soundtrack containing dialogue snippets,{{sfn|Banerjea|2005|pp=177–179}} Sholay soon became an "overnight sensation".{{Cite web |date=14 August 2010 |title=35 years on, the Sholay fire still burns |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/35-years-on-the-sholay-fire-still-burns-44425 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130612074406/http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/35-years-on-the-sholay-fire-still-burns-44425 |archive-date=12 June 2013 |access-date=12 April 2013 |publisher=NDTV}} The film was then released in other distribution zones such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, and Hyderabad on 11 October 1975.{{sfn|Chopra|2000|p=173}} It became the highest-grossing Hindi-language film of 1975, and film ranking website Box Office India has given the film a verdict of All Time Blockbuster. Sholay went on to earn a still-standing record of 60 golden jubilees{{efn|A golden jubilee means that a film has completed 50 consecutive weeks of showing in a single theatre.}} across India, and was the first film in India to celebrate a silver jubilee{{efn|A silver jubilee means that a film has completed 25 consecutive weeks of showing in a single theatre.}} at over 100 theatres. It was shown continuously at Bombay's Minerva Theatre for over five years and in Kolkata's Jyoti Cinema for almost two years.{{cite news|first=Kevin|last=Kelly|title=Scan This Book!|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/14/magazine/14publishing.html|work=New York Times Magazine|date=14 May 2006|access-date=7 March 2008|archive-date=10 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201210150624/https://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/14/magazine/14publishing.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6042|title=All Time Longest Runners In Kolkata: Sholay 2nd - HAHK 4th|access-date=15 February 2024|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215180207/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6042|url-status=live}} Sholay was the Indian film with the longest theatrical run until Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) broke its record of 286 weeks in 2001.{{sfn|Elliott|Payne|Ploesch|2007 |p=54}}{{Cite news |date=3 February 2013 |title=900 not out! |work=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1130203/jsp/7days/story_16515999.jsp |url-status=dead |access-date=11 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304225327/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130203/jsp/7days/story_16515999.jsp |archive-date=4 March 2016}}

File:Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in 2016.jpg starrer Sholay (1975) recorded an estimated {{INR}}15-18 crore footfalls, making it the highest grossing Indian film in terms of audience attendance to date.]]

Before the end of year, he delivered another blockbuster in Pratiggya.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/zakhmee-1975/article5809755.ece|title=Zakhmee (1975)|last=Malhotra|first=Aps|newspaper=The Hindu|date=20 March 2014|via=www.thehindu.com|archive-date=24 October 2023|access-date=21 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231024134010/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/zakhmee-1975/article5809755.ece|url-status=live}} The film along with its strong action scenes also had a significant comic track in the form of "slapstick" comedy which led to it being referred as a "masterpiece in comedy".{{cite book|author=Ashok Raj|title=Hero Vol.2|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2wo9BAAAQBAJ&pg=PT80|access-date=18 September 2014|date=1 November 2009|publisher=Hay House, Inc|isbn=978-93-81398-03-6|pages=80–}}{{cite book|title=India Perspectives|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UuhtAAAAMAAJ|access-date=18 September 2014|year=2005|publisher=PTI for the Ministry of External Affairs}} In 1976, Dharmendra reunited with Ramanand Sagar for the action thriller Charas. Set against the backdrop of the expulsion of Indian community from Uganda by its dictator Idi Amin in 1972, it opened to bumper response all over the nation and emerged a superhit at the box office.{{cite web|url=https://hindi.news18.com/photogallery/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-hema-malini-second-blockbuster-baghavat-film-was-made-on-the-lines-of-superhit-charas-ramanand-sagar-was-earned-shockingly-a-lot-of-money-by-3-films-7999673.html|title=सुपरहिट 'चरस' के तर्ज पर बनी, धर्मेंद्र-हेमा मालिनी की दूसरी फिल्म, लगातार 3 हिट से रामानंद सागर ने कूटे खूब पैसे|date=25 January 2024}} His other release of the year, M. A. Thirumugam's family drama film Maa was thrashed by critics, but still went on to become a success.{{Cite book |title=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |title-link=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |publisher=Penguin Books |year=2014 |isbn=978-0-14-342111-5 |location=Delhi |pages=98 |author-link=Naman Ramachandran |orig-date=2012}} The year 1977 proved to be a big one for Dharmendra with a mega blockbuster in Manmohan Desai's action drama Dharam Veer, a superhit in another of Desai's masala film Chacha Bhatija, followed by two more successful films in Arjun Hingorani's mystery thriller Khel Khilari Ka and Pramod Chakravorty's action comedy Dream Girl.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7993|title=Top Ten All Time Bihar - Gadar 2 Smashes All RECORDS|date=6 September 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/recentpost/flashback-1977-trade-informa-2531|title=Flashback 1977 - Trade Guide Classification|date=8 August 2024|access-date=16 August 2024|archive-date=14 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814072717/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/recentpost/flashback-1977-trade-informa-2531|url-status=dead}} In the United Kingdom, Dharam Veer had 23 shows in 5 cities. Driven by the success of Rafi's songs, the film took a record initial of £50,000 in the UK, equivalent to {{INRConvert|{{#expr:50000*(1000/{{To USD|1000|IND|year=1977}}) round -1}}|year=1977|mode=historical}}.{{cite news |title=United Kingdom Evolution - £100k To £4 Million Of Pathaan |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7602 |access-date=2 March 2023 |work=Box Office India |archive-date=2 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302113326/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7602 |url-status=live }} In addition, the film sold 32 million tickets in the Soviet Union.{{Cite web |title=Dharam Veer |url=https://www.kinopoisk.ru/film/97001/ |access-date=15 August 2023 |website=KinoPoisk |language=ru}}

Post-1977, the quality of Dharmendra's films dropped and so the number of huge grossers, but his initial draw remained intact, owing to which the flow of successes continued till the 1990s. In 1978, he had four major releases which included Shalimar, Azaad, Dillagi and Phandebaaz. Out of these, Shalimar and Phandebaaz were critical and commercial failures while Azaad and Dillagi, both co-starring Malini emerged successful, especially the former which was a superhit as well as fourth highest-grossing film of the year.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8936|title=Game Changer Dull First Week - Emergency and Azaad Opening|date=17 January 2024}} The following year, he added one more superhit in his kitty with Mohan Sehgal's Kartavya and a successful film with Dulal Guha's Dil Kaa Heera.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1979-Classificaiton.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification - 1979|access-date=28 August 2024|archive-date=27 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240827205309/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1979-Classificaiton.jpg|url-status=dead}}

Dharmendra began the 1980s with Ravi Chopra's big-budget action thriller The Burning Train.{{Cite web |last=Saxena |first=Poonam |date=27 July 2023 |title=Flooded cities, burning trains: Poonam Saxena on the timeless lure of cinematic disaster |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/art-culture/the-burning-train-1980-a-disaster-film-of-its-time-documenting-film-history-and-trivia-for-nostalgia-101687610534404.html |website=Hindustan Times |quote=The story goes that BR Chopra's son Ravi Chopra saw The Towering Inferno (1974) while on a trip abroad and was very taken up with the story of a fire that engulfs the world's tallest skyscraper on its opening night. |access-date=10 September 2024 |archive-date=2 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240702052259/https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/art-culture/the-burning-train-1980-a-disaster-film-of-its-time-documenting-film-history-and-trivia-for-nostalgia-101687610534404.html |url-status=live }} The film co-starring Jeetendra, Vinod Khanna, Hema Malini and Parveen Babi didn't live up to the expectations and ended up as an average fare, however gained cult status in later years.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/heres-why-the-burning-train-continues-to-be-the-coolest-disaster-thriller-film-522205.html|title=Here's Why The Burning Train Continues To Be The Coolest Disaster Thriller Film Till Date|date=7 September 2020|access-date=18 January 2024|archive-date=18 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240118204915/https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/heres-why-the-burning-train-continues-to-be-the-coolest-disaster-thriller-film-522205.html|url-status=live}} His next two releases were - Alibaba Aur 40 Chor and Ram Balram. While the former was a moderate success, the latter in which he reunited with Bachchan proved to be a box office hit.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1980-Classification.jpg|title=Summing Up 1980 - Film Information Classification (1980)}}{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} In 1981, he had a superhit in Kaatilon Ke Kaatil, but other releases, such as Aas Paas and Krodhi failed to leave a mark while Brij Sadanah's big-budget actioner Professor Pyarelal ended up as an average grosser.{{cite news |date=1 May 2020 |title=The Best Films Of Rishi Kapoor - Bobby Has Historic Numbers |publisher=boxofficeindia.com |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6050 |access-date=1 May 2020 |archive-date=1 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501110812/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6050 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/40-years-of-jackie-shroff-starrer-hero-director-subhash-ghai-hints-at-sequel-101702630889625.html|title=40 years of Jackie Shroff-starrer Hero: Director Subhash Ghai hints at sequel|work=Hindustan Times |date=18 December 2023}} This changed in 1982 as five of his films emerged commercial successes, these were - Rajput, Badle Ki Aag, Ghazab, Baghavat and Samraat.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1982-Classification.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification 1982|access-date=10 September 2024|archive-date=8 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908141622/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1982-Classification.jpg|url-status=dead}}

In 1983, Dharmendra delivered a hit in Rajkumar Kohli's comedy film Naukar Biwi Ka, followed by another success, Qayamat, but his most anticipated film of that year, Kamal Amrohi's period biographical film Razia Sultan was a box office disaster.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1983-Classification.jpg|title=Film Informatiom Classification 1983|access-date=17 September 2024|archive-date=8 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240908124607/https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-1983-Classification.jpg|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web |title=Kamal Amrohi's dream film Razia Sultan bombs at the box-office |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/films/story/19831015-kamal-amrohi-dream-film-razia-sultan-bombs-at-the-box-office-771082-2013-07-17 |last=Kapoor |first=Sunil Sethi Coomi |website=India Today |date=17 July 2013 |access-date=21 May 2020 |archive-date=17 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211217041352/https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/films/story/19831015-kamal-amrohi-dream-film-razia-sultan-bombs-at-the-box-office-771082-2013-07-17 |url-status=live }} The next year, he had seven releases, out of which Baazi, Jagir, Jeene Nahi Doonga and Dharm Aur Qanoon did reasonable business, but rest were critical and commercial failures.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Information-1984-Classifica.jpg|title=FI Classification (1984)}}{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} In 1985, Dharmendra starred in J. P. Dutta's action drama film Ghulami which also had Mithun Chakraborty, Naseeruddin Shah, Reena Roy and Smita Patil in the lead. The film opened to positive reviews from critics and emerged a superhit as well as one of the top five highest-earners of that year.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Trade-Guide-1985-Classification.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification 1985}}{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Its song, "Zeehale Muskin Makun ba-Ranjish", sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Shabbir Kumar was a chartbuster and was featured in the year-end annual list of Binaca Geetmala.{{cite web|url=https://www.keepalivebollywood.com/binacageetmala/search-detail/page=2|title=Binaca Geetmala (1985)}} The following year, he had another commercial success with Ambrish Sangal's Begaana (1986), co-starring Kumar Gaurav and Rati Agnihotri.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/Film-Inf-Classification-1986.jpg|title=Film Information Classification (1986)}}{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

Dharmendra returned to the big league in 1987 by delivering eight successful films in the year. His first two releases were - Rajkumar Kohli's and Raj N. Sippy's actioners Insaniyat Ke Dushman and Loha, respectively, both of which proved to be box office hits.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/TG-Classification-1987.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification 1987}}{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} He then appeared in Dadagiri, Hukumat and Aag Hi Aag.{{Cite web|title=Aag Hi Aag |website=Rotten Tomatoes |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/aag_hi_aag_1987}}{{Cite news|author=Kanwar, Rachna |title=25 Must See Bollywood Movies |date=3 October 2005 |url=http://movies.indiatimes.com/Special_Features/25_Must_See_Bollywood_Movies/articleshow/msid-1250837,curpg-10.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071015033756/http://movies.indiatimes.com/Special_Features/25_Must_See_Bollywood_Movies/articleshow/msid-1250837%2Ccurpg-10.cms |url-status=dead |archive-date=15 October 2007 |publisher=Indiatimes movies |accessdate=8 November 2010 }} While Dadagiri was an average fare, the latter two went on to become superhits with Hukumat emerging as the highest-grossing film of the year. This was followed by T. Rama Rao's hit venture Watan Ke Rakhwale and two more successful films, Insaaf Kaun Karega with Rajinikanth and Insaf Ki Pukar, co-starring Jeetendra. His other hit ventures of the decade, include Khatron Ke Khiladi (1988) and Elaan-E-Jung (1989).{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/FI-1988-Classifications.jpg|title=Film Information Classification (1988)}}{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6251|title=Rewind - Twenty Years Of Gadar|date=15 June 2021|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119053002/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6251|url-status=live}}

With the advent of the 1990s, Dharmendra's star power began to wane. From 1990 to 1992, his successful films included Naakabandi (1990), Veeru Dada (1990), Humse Na Takrana (1990), Kohraam (1991), Virodhi (1992) and Tahalka (1992), which also proved to be his final hit as a lead actor.{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/FI-Classification-1990.jpg|title=FI Classification (1990)}}{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}{{cite web|url=https://www.bobbytalkscinema.com/bobbytalk/adminpanel/imagetemp/TG-1991-Classifications-P1.jpg|title=Trade Guide Classification (1991)}}{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} In 1993, he appeared in J. P. Dutta's ensemble action film Kshatriya co-starring Sunil Dutt, Vinod Khanna, Rakhee Gulzar, Sanjay Dutt, Sunny Deol, Meenakshi Seshadri, Raveena Tandon and Divya Bharti.{{Cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kshatriya|title=Kshatriya | Rotten Tomatoes|website=www.rottentomatoes.com|access-date=24 April 2024|archive-date=22 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240422221801/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kshatriya|url-status=live}} Kshatriya took a record opening, but collections dropped after it was pulled from theatres owing to Dutt's involvement in the 1993 Bombay bombings and it ended up as a flop.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4419|title=Opening Day Records Since 1990 - 34 Films|date=9 November 2019|access-date=8 December 2024|archive-date=28 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328143742/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4419|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/movies/why-1993-multi-starrer-film-kshatriya-flopped-because-of-sanjay-dutt-8732108.html|title=Why 1993 Multi-starrer Film Kshatriya Flopped Because Of Sanjay Dutt|date=8 January 2024|access-date=2 February 2024|archive-date=16 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240616051736/https://www.news18.com/movies/why-1993-multi-starrer-film-kshatriya-flopped-because-of-sanjay-dutt-8732108.html|url-status=live}} In the mid-1990s, he delivered average fares in Policewala Gunda (1995) and Mafia (1996), but his other releases, including biggies, such as Maidan-E-Jung (1995) and Return of Jewel Thief (1996) proved to be box office failures.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2976|title=Policewala Gunda -Movie}}{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2798|title=Mafia- Movie}}{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=3004|title=Maidan-E-Jung – Movie|publisher=Box Office India}}{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2744|title=Return Of Jewel Thief – Movie|publisher=Box Office India|access-date=18 December 2023|archive-date=7 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407052234/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2744|url-status=live}}

In 1997, Dharmendra received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award. While accepting the award from Dilip Kumar and his wife Saira Banu, he became emotional and remarked that he had never won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor despite having worked in so many successful films and nearly a hundred popular films.{{cite web|title=The real stars of Bollywood|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2004/mar/11corner.htm|publisher=Rediff|access-date=23 December 2010|date=11 March 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110310070326/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2004/mar/11corner.htm|archive-date=10 March 2011|url-status=live}} Speaking on this occasion Dilip Kumar commented, "Whenever I get to meet with God Almighty, I will set before him my only complaint – why did you not make me as handsome as Dharmendra?".{{cite web|title=I was the Salman Khan of my days: Dharmendra|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/i-was-the-salman-khan-of-my-days-dharmendra/495016/0|work=The Financial Express|access-date=23 December 2010|date=28 July 2009|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011132933/https://www.financialexpress.com/|url-status=live}}

Since the late-1990s, Dharmendra has appeared in character roles. His first film in such a role was Sohail Khan's romantic comedy Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998), co-starring Salman Khan, Kajol and Arbaaz Khan.{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/pyaar-kiya-to-darna-kya|title=Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998)|website=Rotten Tomatoes|access-date=3 May 2024|archive-date=3 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240503204408/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/pyaar-kiya-to-darna-kya|url-status=live}} The film received positive reviews from critics and became a superhit at the box office.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2583|title=Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya – Movie|publisher=Box Office India|access-date=16 August 2023|archive-date=1 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801111948/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2583|url-status=live}}

His first two major releases of the new decade were Kaise Kahoon Ke... Pyaar Hai (2003) and Kis Kis Ki Kismat (2004), both of which were box office failures.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=573|title=KAISE KAHOON KE... PYAAR HAI|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119193450/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=573|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1790|title=KIS KIS KI KISMET|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119193451/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1790|url-status=live}} After this, Dharmendra went on a hiatus for a brief period and returned with three films in 2007. These were - Anurag Basu's drama film Life in a... Metro, Anil Sharma's sports drama Apne and Sriram Raghavan's neo-noir thriller Johnny Gaddaar.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/indian-movie-remakes-that-just-didn-t-work-762327.html|title = Indian movie remakes that just didn't work|date = 18 September 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/apne|title=Apne (2007)|website=Rotten Tomatoes|access-date=18 February 2024|archive-date=18 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240218162916/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/apne|url-status=live}} Both, Life in a... Metro and Apne proved to be critical and commercial successes.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=348|title=Life In A Metro - Movie|publisher=Box Office India}}{{Cite web |title=Apne – Movie – Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=227 |website=boxofficeindia.com |access-date=1 June 2021 |archive-date=16 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516021701/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=227|url-status=live}} On the other hand, Johnny Gaddaar, despite failing at the box office, received praise from critics and attained cult status in later years.{{cite news|title=Movie reviews: Johnny Ghaddar|url=http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Movie-reviews/222703/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130122134754/http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Movie-reviews/222703/|url-status=dead|archive-date=22 January 2013|publisher=Indian Express|date=30 September 2007}} The same year, he made a guest appearance in the song "Deewangi Deewangi" from Farah Khan's blockbuster reincarnation drama Om Shanti Om.{{cite web|url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/interviews/10-years-of-om-shanti-om-farah-khan-interview-with-anupama-chopra|title=10 Years of Om Shanti Om with Farah Khan|date=9 November 2017|access-date=18 September 2024|archive-date=20 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120212159/https://www.filmcompanion.in/interviews/10-years-of-om-shanti-om-farah-khan-interview-with-anupama-chopra|url-status=live}} In 2011, Dharmendra starred in Yamla Pagla Deewana and Tell Me O Kkhuda.{{cite news |title=Yamla Pagla Deewana |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/previews/Yamla-Pagla-Deewana/articleshow/7082416.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104043925/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-12-11/bollywood/28257409_1_bobby-deol-sunny-deol-yamla-pagla-deewana |url-status=live |archive-date=4 November 2012 |access-date=13 December 2010 |work=The Times of India |date=11 December 2010}}{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-10-06/news-interviews/28068118_1_hema-malini-s-pics-mayur-puri-vinod-khanna |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021095425/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-10-06/news-interviews/28068118_1_hema-malini-s-pics-mayur-puri-vinod-khanna |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 October 2013 |work=The Times of India |title=Hema remaking Mama Mia? |date=6 October 2009}} While the latter was a commercial disaster, Yamla Pagla Deewana performed very well and emerged a box office hit.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=850|title=Tell Me O Kkhuda|access-date=19 January 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119161937/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=850|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=35|title=Yamla Pagla Deewana - Movie |publisher=Box Office India}} He then appeared in sequels to Yamla Pagla Deewana,

Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013) and Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se (2018), but unlike the first film, both the sequels received poor audience response.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=1|title=Dharmendra (Filmography)|access-date=31 January 2024|archive-date=31 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240131141712/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=1|url-status=live}}

In 2023, he appeared in Karan Johar's ensemble family drama Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. It opened to a polarising response from reviewers but grossed over {{INRConvert|3.5|b|year=2023}} worldwide and proved to be a hit as well as the tenth highest-grossing Indian film of the year.{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7962|title=Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani Emerges HIT Due to Overseas|publisher=Box Office India|access-date=24 August 2023|archive-date=24 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230824075755/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=7962|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2023/|title=Bollywood Top Grossers Worldwide 2023|access-date=11 August 2023|website=Bollywood Hungama|archive-date=26 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230126125943/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2023/|url-status=live}} The following year, Dharmendra co-starred alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon in the romantic comedy Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.{{Cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/teri_baaton_mein_aisa_uljha_jiya|title=Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya | Rotten Tomatoes|website=www.rottentomatoes.com|access-date=19 April 2024|archive-date=29 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329160838/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/teri_baaton_mein_aisa_uljha_jiya|url-status=live}} The film received mixed to negative reviews from critics, but still did a lifetime business of {{INRConvert|1.3|b|year=2024}} worldwide to emerge a commercial success.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8418|title=A Decent First Quarter - Shaitaan Leads Classifications|access-date=19 April 2024|archive-date=19 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419181911/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8418|url-status=live}}

Dharmendra's most successful pairing was with Hema Malini, whom he later married. The couple performed together in many films including Tum Haseen Main Jawaan, Sharafat, Naya Zamana, Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, Jugnu, Dost, Patthar Aur Payal, Sholay, Charas, Maa, Chacha Bhatija and Azaad.{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/movies/when-dharmendra-hema-malinis-guest-appearance-overshadowed-this-films-lead-pair-8725262.html|title=When Dharmendra, Hema Malini's Guest Appearance Overshadowed This Film's Lead Pair|date=2 January 2024}}

He has worked with various directors, each with a different style of filmmaking.{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Comic leanings|url=https://www.couponraja.in/theroyale/dharmendra-action-king-comic-leanings/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180910131758/https://www.couponraja.in/theroyale/dharmendra-action-king-comic-leanings/|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 September 2018|work=The Royale|access-date=23 December 2010}} His longest collaboration was with director Arjun Hingorani from 1960 to 1991. Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere was the debut film of Dharmendra as an actor and Arjun's first directorial venture with Dharmendra as the lead hero.{{cite news |last1=Jaisinghani |first1=Bella |title=Arjun Hingorani dead: Director Arjun Hingorani who introduced Sadhana and Dharmendra dies at 92 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/director-arjun-hingorani-who-introduced-sadhana-and-dharmendra-dies-at-92/articleshow/64055050.cms |access-date=26 April 2022 |work=The Times of India |date=6 May 2018 |language=en |archive-date=19 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619110009/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/director-arjun-hingorani-who-introduced-sadhana-and-dharmendra-dies-at-92/articleshow/64055050.cms |url-status=live }}{{cite book |last=Joshi |first=Sumit |title=Bollywood Through Ages |publisher=Best Book Reads |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=WHQWCgAAQBAJ&q=Arjun+Hingorani&pg=PT65|isbn=9781311676696}} They worked together in Kab? Kyoon? Aur Kahan?, Kahani Kismat Ki, Khel Khilari Ka, Katilon Ke Kaatil and Kaun Kare Kurbanie where Arjun Hingorani was the producer and the director, and Sultanat and Karishma Kudrat Kaa, produced by Arjun Hingorani. He worked with director Pramod Chakravorty in Naya Zamana, Jugnu, Dream Girl and Azaad. Anil Sharma worked with him in many films including Hukumat, Elaan-E-Jung, Farishtay, Tahalka and Apne.

In the starting of his film career he worked in the Bengali film Paari (1966) directed by Jagannath Chatterjee. The film also featured Dilip Kumar and Keshto Mukherjee in key roles.{{cite news | url=https://www.news18.com/blogs/movies/amitava-nag/throwback-thursday-1966-and-the-filmic-conquests-for-bengali-cinema-14057-1217345.html | title=1966 and the filmic conquests for Bengali cinema | publisher=News18 | first=Amitava | last=Nag | date=18 March 2016 | accessdate=20 June 2021}}

He has periodically appeared in films in his native tongue of Punjabi, starring in Kankan De Ohle (1970), Do Sher (1974), Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam (1974), Teri Meri Ik Jindri (1975), Putt Jattan De (1982) and Qurbani Jatt Di (1990). He returned to Punjabi cinema after a gap with the 2014 film Double Di Trouble.{{Cite web|title=Dharmendra is all set to play a double role|last=Lalwani|first=Vickey|work=The Times of India|date=9 October 2013|access-date=19 June 2016|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Dharmendra-Minnisha-Lamba-Poonam-Dhillon-Ragini-Khanna-Ghuggi-and-Gippy-Grewal/articleshow/23775842.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028172307/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Dharmendra-Minnisha-Lamba-Poonam-Dhillon-Ragini-Khanna-Ghuggi-and-Gippy-Grewal/articleshow/23775842.cms|archive-date=28 October 2017|url-status=live}}

Dharmendra served as a Member of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Bharatiya Janata Party representing Bikaner in Rajasthan from 2004 to 2009. During his election campaign in 2004, he made an offensive remark that he should be elected dictator perpetuo to teach "basic etiquette that democracy requires" for which he was severely criticised.{{cite web|title=Congress makes Dharam garam|url=http://www.rediff.com/election/2004/apr/23dtake.htm|publisher=Rediff|access-date=23 December 2010|date=23 April 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081010183540/http://www.rediff.com/election/2004/apr/23dtake.htm|archive-date=10 October 2008|url-status=live}} He rarely attended Parliament when the house was in session, preferring to spend time shooting movies or working at his farmhouse, for which he was also widely criticised.{{cite web|title=Dharmendra – Action King: Political career|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/pictureStory.php?galId=1101&pg=6&view=6|work=The Indian Express|access-date=23 December 2010}}

File:Dharmendra.jpg

In 2011, Dharmendra replaced Sajid Khan as the male judge of the third series of popular reality show India's Got Talent.{{cite web|title=Bollywood's lucky for TV|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bollywoods-lucky-for-tv/827205|work=The Indian Express|date=4 August 2011|access-date=5 August 2011|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011132942/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/bollywoods-lucky-for-tv/827205|url-status=live}} On 29 July 2011, the show aired on Colors TV with Dharmendra as the new judge and surpassed the opening ratings of the previous two seasons.{{cite news|title=Dharmendra fetches higher ratings for India's has Got Talent-3|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/hindi/Dharmendra-fetches-higher-ratings-for-Indias-Got-Talent-3/articleshow/9479102.cms|access-date=23 August 2016|date=4 August 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120701182038/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-08-04/tv/29850204_1_reality-show-tvr-average-rating|archive-date=1 July 2012|work=The Times of India|url-status=live}}

In 2023, he appeared in his first television acting role as Salim Chisti in the historical series Taj: Divided by Blood which is available on ZEE5.{{cite news |title=Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari and Aashim Gulati attend the logo unveiling of TAJ – Divided by Blood |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-and-aashim-gulati-attend-the-logo-unveiling-of-taj-divided-by-blood-photogallery/cid/1916425 |work=The Telegraph (India) |date=14 February 2023 |access-date=17 February 2023 |archive-date=17 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217170104/https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/dharmendra-aditi-rao-hydari-and-aashim-gulati-attend-the-logo-unveiling-of-taj-divided-by-blood-photogallery/cid/1916425 |url-status=live }}

In 1983, Dharmendra set up a production company known as Vijayta Films. In its maiden venture Betaab, released in 1983, Vijayta Films launched Dharmendra's elder son Sunny Deol as the lead actor. The film was the second highest-grossing film of the year. In 1990 he produced the action film Ghayal, also starring Sunny. The film won seven Filmfare Awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Film.{{Cite web |date=22 June 2021 |title=31 Years of Ghayal: The Inside story on why Sunny Deol had to accept the Best Film Award at Filmfare on behalf of his father Dharmendra 31 |website=Bollywood Hungama |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/31-years-ghayal-inside-story-sunny-deol-accept-best-film-award-filmfare-behalf-father-dharmendra/ |access-date=4 August 2023 |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153455/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/31-years-ghayal-inside-story-sunny-deol-accept-best-film-award-filmfare-behalf-father-dharmendra/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=4 April 2023 |title=What Happened When Sunny Deol's Ghayal And Aamir Khan's Dil Released On The Same Day? |url=https://www.news18.com/entertainment/what-happened-when-sunny-deols-ghayal-and-aamir-khans-dil-released-on-the-same-day-7466503.html |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153458/https://www.news18.com/entertainment/what-happened-when-sunny-deols-ghayal-and-aamir-khans-dil-released-on-the-same-day-7466503.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |title=Filmfare Awards 1991 Winners |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/filmfare-awards-winners/bollywood/1991/101?from=mdr |access-date=4 August 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153455/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/filmfare-awards-winners/bollywood/1991/101?from=mdr |url-status=live }} It won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Dharmendra then launched the career of his younger son, Bobby, in 1995 with Barsaat, which was again a super hit at the box office.{{cite web |last1=Vijayakar |first1=Rajeev |title=Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Rangeela and more: 1995 was an exceptional year |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/dilwale-dulhania-le-jayenge-rangeela-1995-exceptional-year/ |access-date=25 March 2020 |website=Bollywood Hungama |date=1 March 2020 |archive-date=13 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200313132209/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/dilwale-dulhania-le-jayenge-rangeela-1995-exceptional-year/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=Barsaat - Movie - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2968 |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=boxofficeindia.com |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804153704/https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2968 |url-status=live }}

He was the presenter for his films like Satyakam (1969) and Kab Kyun Aur Kahan (1970).

Dharmendra is widely regarded as one of the most influential personalities in Indian cinema.{{Cite magazine |title=Iconic heroes of Bollywood |magazine=India Today |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/cinema/100-years-of-indian-cinema/photo/iconic-heroes-of-bollywood-367542-2012-05-01/8 |url-status=live |access-date=24 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128234730/https://www.indiatoday.in/cinema/100-years-of-indian-cinema/photo/iconic-heroes-of-bollywood-367542-2012-05-01/8 |archive-date=28 November 2020}}{{cite news|title=Dharmendra: Stars shine for some time and fade away, but an actor will always leave behind a legacy|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-stars-shine-for-some-time-and-fade-away-but-an-actor-will-always-leave-behind-a-legacy/articleshow/64355437.cms|access-date=10 July 2023|work=Times of India|date=29 May 2018|archive-date=10 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710143137/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-stars-shine-for-some-time-and-fade-away-but-an-actor-will-always-leave-behind-a-legacy/articleshow/64355437.cms|url-status=live}} He was considered one of the most handsome men in the world during his early career{{cite web|title=When Dharmendra was compared to a Hollywood star who he didn't recognise: 'Uski picture hi nahi dekhi thi'|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/when-dharmendra-was-compared-to-a-hollywood-star-who-he-didn-t-recognise-uski-picture-hi-nahi-dekhi-thi-101642923670930.html|access-date=10 July 2023|work=Hindustan Times|date=23 January 2022|archive-date=10 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710144301/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/when-dharmendra-was-compared-to-a-hollywood-star-who-he-didn-t-recognise-uski-picture-hi-nahi-dekhi-thi-101642923670930.html|url-status=live}} and is widely known as the "He-Man" of Bollywood. In 2022, he was placed in Outlook India{{'}}s "75 Best Bollywood Actors" list.{{Cite web |title=75 Bollywood Actors Who Conquered Hearts Of The Millions |work=Outlook India |date=12 August 2022 |access-date=16 August 2022 |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/75-actors-who-conquered-hearts-of-the-millions-since-1947-news-215861/amp |archive-date=16 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220816142138/https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/75-actors-who-conquered-hearts-of-the-millions-since-1947-news-215861/amp |url-status=live}} Rediff.com placed him 10th in its "Top 10 Bollywood Actors of All Time" list.{{cite web |title=Readers' Pick: Top 10 Bollywood Actors of All Time! |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/slide-show-1-readers-pick-the-top-ten/20130502.htm |access-date=24 December 2021 |magazine=India Today |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818133557/https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/slide-show-1-readers-pick-the-top-ten/20130502.htm |archive-date=18 August 2019 |url-status=live}}

Dharmendra most notable acting performances include Satyakam with Hrishikesh Mukherjee,{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|title=Satyakam: Dharmendra's best role of his career|website=rediff.com|publisher=Rediff|access-date=23 December 2010|author=Dinesh Raheja|author-link=Dinesh Raheja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110126212046/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/mar/15dinesh.htm|archive-date=26 January 2011|url-status=live}} and Sholay, which is listed by Indiatimes as one of the "top 25 must see Bollywood films of all time". In 2005, the judges of the 50th annual Filmfare Awards awarded Sholay the special distinction of Filmfare Best Film of 50 years.{{Cite web|date=22 February 2006|title=Winners of 50th Filmfare Awards|url=https://zeenews.india.com/home/winners-of-50th-filmfare-awards_277396.html|access-date=23 June 2020|website=Zee News|language=en|archive-date=26 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200626022217/https://zeenews.india.com/home/winners-of-50th-filmfare-awards_277396.html|url-status=live}}

When Dilip Kumar was giving the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award to Dharmendra, he commented, "Whenever I get to meet with God Almighty, I will set before him my only complaint—why did you not make me as handsome as Dharmendra?".{{cite news |title=धर्मेंद्र ने एक अवॉर्ड शो में इमोशनल होकर दिलीप कुमार के बारे में कहा था- 'हम एक मां की कोख से क्यों पैदा नहीं हुए' |url=https://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-pays-his-respect-to-dilip-kumar-at-his-residence-was-inspired-with-the-legendary-actor-21806930.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230710145935/https://www.jagran.com/entertainment/bollywood-dharmendra-pays-his-respect-to-dilip-kumar-at-his-residence-was-inspired-with-the-legendary-actor-21806930.html |archive-date=10 July 2023 |access-date=10 July 2023 |work=Jagran}} One of the most successful actors of the 1970s and 1980s, Dharmendra appeared in Box Office India's "Top Actors" list eighteen times from 1968 to 1984 and 1987. He topped the list four times (1972–1975).

Dharmendra holds the record for delivering most number of hit films by an actor in hindi cinema. In 1987, Dharmendra delivered seven consecutive hit films in a single year which is still a record in Hindi cinema.

{{Main|Dharmendra filmography}}

{{Main|Civilian award}}

File:The President, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil presenting the Padma Bhushan Award to Shri Dharmendra Deol, at an Investiture Ceremony-II, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 04, 2012.jpg presenting the Padma Bhushan Award to Dharmendra in 2012]]

• 2012 – Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian honour from the Government of India{{cite web|date=27 January 2013|title=Padma Awards2012|url=http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=79881|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524145714/http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=79881|archive-date=24 May 2013|access-date=27 January 2013|publisher=pib}}

{{Main|National Film Awards}}

• 1990 – Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment – Ghayal{{Cite news |title=National Awards 1990 Winners |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/national-awards-winners/1990/108?from=mdr |access-date=4 August 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804171522/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/national-awards-winners/1990/108?from=mdr |url-status=live }}

{{Main|Filmfare Awards}}

• In the mid-seventies, Dharmendra was voted one of the most handsome men in the world.{{cite news |title=Dharmendra, who was voted as one of the most handsome men in the 70s, is seen with his daughter Vijetta Deol at their residence. |url=https://photogallery.indiatimes.com/movies/100-yrs-of-indian-cinema/dharmendras-toi-archives-100-years-of-indian-cinema/articleshow/20148585.cms |access-date=12 August 2022 |work=The Times of India |date=20 May 2013 |archive-date=7 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007081437/https://photogallery.indiatimes.com/movies/100-yrs-of-indian-cinema/dharmendras-toi-archives-100-years-of-indian-cinema/articleshow/20148585.cms |url-status=live }}
• He received a Special Award for his "contribution in Indian Cinema" at the Kalakar Awards.{{citation needed|date=February 2021}}
• He is a recipient of the "Living Legend Award" by the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Indian entertainment industry.{{cite web|url=http://archives.chennaionline.com/film/News/2007/03article09.asp|title=FICCI-Frames award for Kamal Haasan|access-date=2 January 2009|last=Rangaraj|first=R.|date=14 March 2007|publisher=Channai Online|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081023215117/http://archives.chennaionline.com/film/News/2007/03article09.asp|archive-date=23 October 2008|url-status=dead}}
• In 2003 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sansui Viewers' Choice Movie Awards.{{cite news|title=Devdas sweeps movie awards|work=The Statesman|date=29 March 2003}}
• In 2004, he was honoured for Best Contribution to Indian Cinema.{{cite news|title=Hrithik, Urmila win top honours at Zee awards ceremony|work=Daily Express|date=27 February 2004}}
• In 2005, he received the Zee Cine Award for Lifetime Achievement{{citation needed|date=October 2024}}
• In 2007, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF){{Cite web |title=Pune International Film Festival |url=https://www.piffindia.com/PIFF-distinguished-awardees.php |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=www.piffindia.com}}
• In 2007, he received an IIFA Lifetime Achievement Award.{{Cite news |title=IIFA Awards 2007 Winners |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/iifa-awards-winners/2007/117 |access-date=4 August 2023 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804173051/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-awards/iifa-awards-winners/2007/117 |url-status=live }}
• In 2007, he received an award for Humanitarian Services to the Indian Nation.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/dharmendra-gets-an-award/articleshow/2625065.cms|title=Dharmendra gets an award – Sunday TOI|work=The Times of India|date=16 December 2007|access-date=12 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091213045710/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2625065.cms|archive-date=13 December 2009|url-status=live}}
• In 2007, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement award by DBR Entertainment.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/009200707060323.htm|title='Garam Dharam' still a hit with fans in US, Canada|access-date=2 January 2009|date=6 July 2007|work=The Hindu|location=Chennai, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070921125430/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/009200707060323.htm|archive-date=21 September 2007|url-status=live}}
• In 2007, the Punjabi newspaper Quami Ekta honoured him for his contributions to Indian cinema.
• In 2008, he was named "Actor Par Excellence" at the Max Stardust Awards.{{Cite web |date=25 January 2008 |title=MAX Stardust Awards 2008 |url=https://www.afaqs.com/media-briefs/28550_max-stardust-awards-2008 |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=afaqs! |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804172553/https://www.afaqs.com/media-briefs/28550_max-stardust-awards-2008 |url-status=live }}
• In 2008, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image (MAMI) International Film Festival.{{cite web|url=http://www.ibosnetwork.com/newsmanager/templates/template1.aspx?articleid=21234&zoneid=4|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121206013021/http://www.ibosnetwork.com/newsmanager/templates/template1.aspx?articleid=21234&zoneid=4|url-status=dead|archive-date=6 December 2012|title=Dharmendra, Rishi Kapoor win at 10th M.A.M.I event|access-date=2 January 2009|date=14 March 2008|publisher=IBOS}}
• In 2009, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Nashik International Film Festival (NIFF).{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/dharamendra-asha-parekh-get-lifetime-achievement-award/497393|title=Dharamendra, Asha Parekh get lifetime achievement award|work=The Indian Express|date=3 August 2009|access-date=12 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090907163014/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/dharamendra-asha-parekh-get-lifetime-achievement-award/497393|archive-date=7 September 2009|url-status=live}}
• In 2010, he was honoured as the Big Star Entertainer for his half-century of excellence at the BIG Star Entertainment Awards.{{Citation needed|date=August 2023}}
• In 2011, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Apsara Film & Television Producers Guild Award.{{Cite web|url=https://hamaraphotos.com/photo_-440041.html|title=Dharmendra at 6th Apsara Film and Television Producers Guild Awards in BKC, Mumbai on 11th Jan 2011 / Dharmendra - Bollywood Photos}}
• In 2011, he received a "Salaam Maharashtra Award" for completing 50 years in the film industry.{{Cite web|title=Dharmendra Bags 'Salaam Maharashtra Award' For 50 Years in B'Town!|url=https://www.movietalkies.com/news/dharmendra-bags-salaam-maharashtra-award-for-50-years-in-btown/|access-date=26 June 2020|website=Movie Talkies|date=31 January 2011|language=en|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011132957/https://www.movietalkies.com/news/dharmendra-bags-salaam-maharashtra-award-for-50-years-in-btown/|url-status=live}}
• In 2011, he was honoured with "The ITA Scroll Of Honour" at the Indian Television Academy Awards.{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Amitabh-Dharmendra-honoured-at-Indian-Television-Awards/H1-Article1-750373.aspx|title=Amitabh, Dharmendra honoured at Indian Television Awards|date=26 September 2011|access-date=8 December 2011|publisher=Hintustantimes|location=New Delhi|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927021500/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Amitabh-Dharmendra-honoured-at-Indian-Television-Awards/H1-Article1-750373.aspx|archive-date=27 September 2011}}
• In 2017, he was honoured with the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Nobel award at Mumbai.{{Cite news |date=13 April 2017 |title=Dharmendra honoured with the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Nobel Award |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/dharmendra-honoured-with-the-dr-babasaheb-ambedkar-nobel-award/story-RsRSaEGCLlZwNxjiW3umrI.html#:~:text=Dharmendra,%20along%20with%20several%20other,Bhaidas%20Hall%20in%20Juhu,%20Mumbai. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021181124/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/dharmendra-honoured-with-the-dr-babasaheb-ambedkar-nobel-award/story-RsRSaEGCLlZwNxjiW3umrI.html#:~:text=Dharmendra,%20along%20with%20several%20other,Bhaidas%20Hall%20in%20Juhu,%20Mumbai. |archive-date=21 October 2021 |access-date=17 January 2025 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en-us |url-status=live }}

File:Dharmendra and Sunny Shah.jpg

• In 2020, he was honoured with a "Lifetime Achievement Award" by the state of New Jersey in United States.{{Cite web |title=Veteran actor Dharmendra honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award by New Jersey Senate and General Assembly |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/hindi/veteran-actor-dharmendra-honoured-with-lifetime-achievement-award-by-new-jersey-senate-and-general-assembly/videoshow/79928845.cms |access-date=4 August 2023 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804155949/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/hindi/veteran-actor-dharmendra-honoured-with-lifetime-achievement-award-by-new-jersey-senate-and-general-assembly/videoshow/79928845.cms |url-status=live }}

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{Cite book |last=Banerjea |first=Koushik |title=Bollyworld: Popular Indian Cinema Through A Transnational Lens |publisher=Sage |year=2005 |isbn=978-0-7619-3321-2 |editor-last=Kaur |editor-first=Raminder |chapter='Fight Club': Aesthetics, Hybridisation and the Construction of Rogue Masculinities in Sholay and Deewar |editor-last2=Sinha |editor-first2=Ajay J |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DGtNhQsLl7wC&pg=PA176 }}
• {{Cite book |last=Chopra |first=Anupama |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p8oM0k2UNzMC |title=Sholay – The Making of a Classic |publisher=Penguin Books, India |year=2000 |isbn=0-14-029970-X |access-date=15 July 2016 |archive-date=9 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009030303/http://books.google.com/books?id=p8oM0k2UNzMC |url-status=live }}
• {{Cite book |last1=Elliott |first1=Emory |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rvPP_xmUwyUC&pg=PA37 |title=Global migration, social change, and cultural transformation |last2=Payne |first2=Jasmine |last3=Ploesch |first3=Patricia |publisher=Macmillan |year=2007 |isbn=978-0-230-60054-6 |access-date=15 July 2016 |archive-date=11 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111233124/http://books.google.com/books?id=rvPP_xmUwyUC&pg=PA37 |url-status=live }}

{{Commons category}}

• {{IMDb name}}
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{{FilmfareLifetimeAchievementAward}}

{{PadmaBhushanAwardRecipients 2010–19}}

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