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Bollywood –  The late veteran actor Dharmendra left behind an enduring legacy that continues to influence generations of actors, including Akshay Kumar, who once openly spoke about the impact the screen icon had on his early journey in films.

Akshay Kumar, now one of Hindi cinema’s most bankable stars, once reflected on his formative years during an appearance on the former celebrity interview show Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai. Speaking with host Farooq Sheikh, the actor recalled how Dharmendra was the figure he admired most while trying to establish himself in the film industry.

Admiration During Early Struggles

During the conversation, Akshay candidly shared that Dharmendra represented everything he aspired to become as an actor and as a personality. He described watching Dharmendra on screen as an experience that never grew tiring, noting that the veteran star possessed a natural strength and masculine charm that felt effortless.

Akshay explained that Dharmendra’s presence was not limited to dialogue or action sequences but extended to the way he carried himself. According to him, those qualities resonated deeply with audiences and set a standard that many young actors hoped to emulate. Farooq Sheikh added a lighthearted remark, pointing out that such traits were equally admired by female fans, a comment that drew smiles during the exchange.

A Shared Moment on the Big Screen

Years after Akshay first idolized Dharmendra from afar, the two actors eventually worked together in the 1995 action drama Maidan-E-Jung. Directed by K. C. Bokadia, the film brought together a large ensemble cast and marked a significant moment for Akshay, who found himself sharing screen space with the very star he once looked up to.

The film featured established names such as Manoj Kumar, Jaya Prada, and Karisma Kapoor in prominent roles. Supporting performances came from Mukesh Khanna, Amrish Puri, and Gulshan Grover, adding weight to the project. While the film itself remains a part of 1990s Bollywood action cinema, the collaboration symbolized a passing of the torch between generations.

The Passing of a Cinematic Icon

Dharmendra, often referred to as Bollywood’s original He-Man, passed away in November last year at the age of 89. His death marked the end of an era that defined Hindi cinema for decades. Fans across the country mourned the loss of an actor whose appeal spanned age groups and generations.

In the months leading up to his passing, Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai after experiencing breathing-related issues. He was discharged following treatment, but his health reportedly declined again later. As his condition worsened, he was placed on ventilator support, according to reports at the time.

From Small-Town Roots to Stardom

Born in 1935 in Punjab, Dharmendra’s journey to stardom was far from conventional. He was discovered through a talent hunt jointly organized by Filmfare magazine and Bimal Roy Productions, aimed at identifying new faces for Hindi cinema. His striking looks and effortless charisma helped him stand out, ultimately winning the competition.

He made his acting debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and quickly rose to prominence. Over the years, Dharmendra delivered several commercially successful and critically appreciated films, including Phool Aur Patthar, Dharam Veer, and Seeta Aur Geeta. His work cemented his position as one of the most influential actors in Indian film history.

A Legacy That Continues

Decades after his debut, Dharmendra’s influence remains visible in the admiration expressed by actors like Akshay Kumar. His journey from a small-town talent hunt winner to a national icon continues to inspire aspiring artists, ensuring that his contribution to cinema is remembered long after the curtains have fallen.