Dharmendra’s Signing Amount For Bollywood Debut Was NOT Even Rs 100; Exact Number May Surprise You

Dharmendra's death has created an immense void in the Hindi cinema industry. Over the course of his more than 60-year career, the 89-year old actor starred in over 300 movies. With roles in Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and the most recent Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, the late legendary star has established a lasting legacy. Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, a 1960 film, marked the beginning of his filmy career. Dharmendra made his debut appearance on celluloid at the age of just 20. After receiving the nationally organised new talent award from Filmfare magazine, he moved from Punjab to Delhi, the Sholay actor was bitten by filmy bug. Here's how his journey to ultimate stardom began:

Dharmendra debuted with the 1960 romantic drama Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, which didn't land him the success he anticipated. The movie, which was a depressing tale of star-crossed love about Mumbai's underprivileged and helpless people who are unable to overcome their situation, even tanked at the box office. 

Dharmendra's First Paycheck REVEALED

Dharmendra opened up about his first signing amount and paycheck during his appearance on Salman Khan's game show 10 Ka Dum. The late actor spoke up about how much money he made from his debut movie and how he used it. 'Rs 3,500–7,000' was his first-ever film salary, he recalled with a smile when the host questioned him about it. However, he had actually started with filmmaker Arjun Hingorani's directorial, Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.

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Dharmendra shared, "There were three partners, and I was sitting at the side of the cabin, thinking I'll get at least Rs 5,000. But they gave just Rs 51 as a signing amount." The actor revealed that he spent the Rs 51 on alcohol to celebrate the success with his friends.

The actor jokingly remembers, "When we had our first peg, I used a handkerchief to hold the glass so that it wouldn't get my fingerprints. I thought if the police caught me, my career would be over."

 

 

 

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Dharmendra's Rise To Stardom

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Dharmendra progressively grabbed the interest of both viewers and filmmakers with his outstanding performances in movies like Ayee Milan Ki Bela and Aaye Din Bahar Ke. But Phool Aur Patthar turned out to be the pivotal moment in his career, solidifying his status as a leading man and propelling him to fame.

Dharmendra worked in a number of hits and blockbusters throughout the ensuing years. In addition to showcasing his versatility, movies like Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Sholay, and Seeta Aur Geeta solidified his reputation as one of the most lucrative actors of his era. The superstar made a smooth shift into the action genre in the 1980s while continuing to maintain his fame during the 1970s. He was dubbed the He-Man of India because of his strong performances.