Dharmendra and the unspoken realities of Bollywood’s political forays

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat*

Film star Dharmendra lived a remarkably full life. Unapologetically himself, he was known as a man with a generous heart who cherished people and often spoke of love as a guiding principle. His career began in the black-and-white era, where some of his earliest and most memorable performances captured the imagination of audiences across India. He openly idolised , whom he regarded as family, and never missed an opportunity to express his admiration for the legendary actor.

Dharmendra’s cinematic journey began with "Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere" and went on to include a long list of celebrated films: "Shola Aur Shabnam", "Anpadh", "Ayi Milan Ki Bela", "Haqeeqat", "Purnima", "Kajal", "Mamta", "Devar", "Baharen Phir Ayengi", "Aye Din Bahar Ke", "Mere Humdum Mere Dost"—all of which gifted audiences unforgettable songs and stories. He later delivered critically appreciated performances in films such as "Satyakam", "Anupama", "Chupke Chupke", "Phool Aur Patthar", "Guddi", and many others. He was, in many ways, the quintessential people’s hero, particularly beloved by rural audiences.

Despite his immense popularity, Dharmendra was not always recognised as a “great actor” in the conventional critical sense. Yet his star appeal consistently transcended such labels. Alongside , he formed one of Indian cinema’s most adored on-screen and off-screen partnerships. Still, he wore his fame lightly and lived life on his own terms.

Though never politically inclined, Dharmendra joined the and served as . His parliamentary performance was widely criticised, and he rarely participated in proceedings. Unlike some of his children, however, he never gravitated toward ideological extremism. At heart, he remained a romantic who loved , , and —an unfiltered man who enjoyed his evening whisky and never pretended otherwise.

Dharmendra leaves behind a vast and cherished legacy. He gave Indian cinema some of its most beloved films, and will be remembered as a star who embraced life fully and connected deeply with people.

As I have often said, we must avoid depending on film stars for political positions. Admire them for their craft—acting, singing, performing. Our celebrities often rely heavily on state patronage; their public stances shift with political winds. It is better for them to focus on their work rather than preach about national greatness. Dharmendra, after dabbling in politics, recognised that it was not for him and returned to what he truly cared about. In an industry filled with façades, he stood apart for his authenticity. Rooted in Punjab, he carried his pride in his heritage throughout his life. And yes, there is another man who left politics yet remains a larger political force than any active politician today—but I need not name him.

Dharmendra entertained generations and gifted us unforgettable cinema. A heartfelt salute to his memory.

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*Human rights defender

Neville Cardus: The man who turned cricket writing into poetry

By Harsh Thakor* Neville Cardus was one of the most remarkable literary figures of the twentieth century. A prolific English writer and critic, he achieved distinction in two vastly different fields: cricket and classical music. Entirely self-taught, Cardus rose from humble beginnings to become both the cricket correspondent and chief music critic of The Manchester Guardian . His achievements in these contrasting disciplines earned him widespread acclaim and established him as one of the foremost critics of his generation. In February 2025, the cricketing and literary world marked the fiftieth anniversary of his death, which occurred in February 1975.

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