The iconic Dharmendra was being his usual self-effacing self when he said there was only one bad actor in Sholay. Explaining his modesty (not that it needs any explanation) the agreeable actor said to me, “There were so many great actors in Sholay. Even the smallest of roles like the ones played by Asrani and A K Hangal stood out. I played a masti-khor in Sholay and I went through the film like a picnic.”
Is it is true Dharamji recommended Amitabh Bachchan for Jai’s role? “It is true. But so what? Amit was relatively new at that time. And obviously a volcano of talent. When I came into the industry so many seniors recommended me. The one thing that I’ve learnt to be most valuable in life is kindness and generosity.”
Is Hema Malini Dharamji’s most favourite co-star? “Of course I enjoyed working with her. We grew close to one another while working together. But I also enjoyed working with Sharmila Tagore with whom I did some of my best films with director Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Asha Parekh, Mumtaz, Nutanji, Meena Kumariji, Mala Sinhaji, Sairaji…I got the opportunity to work with Sadhana was very late in Ishq Par Zor Nahin….they were all wonderful co-stars. I learnt so much from them.”
Any unfulfilled dreams? “I wish I could have devoted more time to my poetry. It is only now that I am trying to catch up for the lost time. Writing poetry gives me great pleasure. Ek ajab sa sukoon hai pantiyan likhne mein.”
Image source: SpotboyE archives, Instagram/aapkadharam