Dharmendra: From Loverboy to Bollywood's Original He-Man

Dharmendra's cinematic journey saw a significant transformation from his early romantic roles to becoming Bollywood's quintessential action hero. Initially, his career in the 1960s was defined by romantic dramas and musical films, where his rugged looks and charm captivated audiences. Films like 'Phool Aur Patthar' highlighted his screen presence, while others showcased his ability to portray sensitivity.

The shift towards action began subtly with the gritty war film 'Haqeeqat' in 1964. However, it was 'Mera Gaon Mera Desh' in 1971 that truly solidified his image as a leading action star, a role that set a template for future blockbusters. This film earned him a Filmfare nomination and epitomized a new Bollywood hero.

Throughout the 1970s, Dharmendra, alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Vinod Khanna, defined the action era, skillfully blending action with comedy and drama. His portrayal of Veeru in 'Sholay' exemplified this, balancing humor with his heroic exploits. Though his 1980s action roles were less impactful due to evolving cinema trends, he continued to be a significant presence, later transitioning to character roles.