'Amazing human being...': Himani Shivpuri recalls first meeting with Dharmendra
What's the story
Veteran actor Himani Shivpuri recently reminisced about her first encounter with the late Bollywood icon Dharmendra on the sets of her film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). Speaking to Telly Talk India, she described being awestruck by his charisma and good looks. "I think he was in his 60s or late 50s. He was so good looking, red cheeks and such charisma," she recalled.
Introduction
Shivpuri's co-star introduced her to Dharmendra
Shivpuri, known for her roles in Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, remembered that it was her co-star Farida Jalal who introduced her to Dharmendra. "He said, 'Welcome to the industry,' and gave so many best wishes. He was an amazing human being," she shared. The actor also expressed disappointment that Dharmendra was often overshadowed by other actors, such as Sanjeev Kumar and Dilip Kumar, during his lifetime.
Underrated legacy
'He was the most underrated actor...'
Shivpuri further added, "So much love and kindness, that was his personality, and he was the most underrated actor." "We remember Sanjeev Kumar and Dilip Kumar, but Dharam paaji, he did comedy, tragedy, and action. He was the first He-Man." "I feel people are now giving him his due. He never got his due; that's how I feel. I think the love people had for him is enough for any actor."
Final farewell
Dharmendra passed away recently
Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 due to age-related complications, was remembered fondly by Shivpuri. The 89-year-old actor had been undergoing treatment for his ailments and was eventually brought home to be with his family during his final days. He will be last seen in Sriram Raghavan's Ikkis, releasing on December 25.