Dharmendra, the “He-Man” of Bollywood, has had an incredible career spanning over six decades. Picking just ten top movies is challenging, but these are widely considered his most iconic and influential films, showcasing his range from intense action to heartfelt romance and powerful drama.
Here are the top 10 movies of Dharmendra, considering critical acclaim, popularity, and cultural impact:
Role: Veeru
Why it’s top: An undisputed classic and one of the greatest Indian films ever made. Dharmendra’s portrayal of the lovable, boisterous Veeru, who famously serenades his beloved on a water tank, is iconic. His chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan defined the “bromance” in Indian cinema.
2. Bandini (1963)
Role: Devendra
Why it’s top: This is a testament to Dharmendra’s early dramatic prowess. In a film dominated by Nutan’s stellar performance, Dharmendra holds his own as the compassionate prison doctor who falls in love with a convict. A far cry from his later “action hero” image.
3. Satyakam (1969)
Role: Satyapriya Acharya
Why it’s top: Arguably his finest dramatic performance. Dharmendra plays an uncompromisingly honest and idealistic engineer struggling with the moral corruption of post-independence India. A powerful and poignant film that showcases his depth as an actor.
4. Chupke Chupke (1975)
Role: Prof. Parimal Tripathi / ‘Driver’ Raghav
Why it’s top: This comedy classic highlights his impeccable timing and charm. Playing a botany professor who pretends to be a chauffeur to fool his brother-in-law, Dharmendra is hilarious and endearing, proving his mastery in the comedy genre.
5. Phool Aur Patthar (1966)
Role: Shaka
Why it’s top: The film that cemented his “Action King” status. His role as a tough, reformed criminal with a golden heart became the blueprint for the Hindi film “angry young man” that would later be synonymous with Amitabh Bachchan.
6. Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)
Role: Shankar
Why it’s top: A foundational Bollywood “masala” film and one of the earliest “lost and found” narratives. As the eldest of three separated brothers, Dharmendra delivers a solid performance, and the film’s music is legendary.
Role: Raka
Why it’s top: The film that won him his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor. Playing the protector of Hema Malini’s dual roles, he is the perfect heroic anchor in this entertaining story of separated twins, a remake of the classic ‘Ram Aur Shyam’.
8. Jugnu (1973)
Role: Suraj
Why it’s top: One of the biggest commercial hits of its time, pairing him with Hema Malini, his future wife. Their on-screen chemistry was electric, and the songs from this film remain all-time classics.
9. Anupama (1966)
Role: Ashok
Why it’s top: In this delicate and beautiful film, Dharmendra plays the writer who brings joy and love into the life of a emotionally suppressed young woman (Sharmila Tagore). His role is gentle, supportive, and perfectly pitched.
10. Dharam Veer (1977)
Role: Dharam
Why it’s top: While not a critical darling, this film is a cult classic and the peak of the “campy” fantasy-action genre. With its over-the-top dialogue, flamboyant costumes, and the iconic pairing with Jeetendra, it represents a certain quintessential, entertainingly larger-than-life side of Dharmendra.
Honorable Mentions
Johnny Gaddaar (2007): A brilliant late-career performance in a neo-noir thriller, proving his versatility across generations.
Life in a… Metro (2007): His poignant role as an elderly man rediscovering love was widely appreciated.
Pratiggya (1975): A hugely popular “angry young man” potboiler.
Tere Mere Sapne (1971): A heartfelt adaptation of A.J. Cronin’s ‘The Citadel’.