Dharmendra movies: Late actor Dharmendra’s legacy in Hindi cinema has always been larger than life. His screen presence carried an effortless blend of strength, charm, humour and vulnerability that few actors have matched. For decades, he defined the quintessential Hindi film hero, a man who could fight a dozen villains, romance with sincerity, deliver punchlines that shook the theatre, and still look like he wandered in without trying too hard.
As audiences revisit his work after his passing, a renewed appreciation has emerged for the sheer range he brought to the screen. Here’s a look at some of his finest films, movies that show exactly why Dharam Paaji became Bollywood’s original He-Man.
1. The Burning Train (1980)
Where to watch: Prime Video
Ravi Chopra’s high-octane disaster drama placed Dharmendra in the role of Ashok, the engineer behind India’s fastest train, the Super Express. When a sabotage plot turns the train into a blazing inferno, Ashok races against time to save its passengers. The film blends action, emotion and large-scale spectacle, with Dharmendra leading an ensemble cast that includes Vinod Khanna, Jeetendra and Hema Malini. His heroic resolve and grounded performance anchor the chaos, making it one of the most memorable thrillers of its era.
2. Dillagi (1978)
Where to watch: SonyLIV
Dharmendra’s comic brilliance shines in Basu Chatterjee’s gentle romantic drama. As Swarnakamal, a sincere Sanskrit professor hopelessly smitten with Hema Malini’s fiery chemistry teacher Phoolrenu, he delivers a performance filled with warmth and understated humour. Their awkward meetings and slowly blossoming affection create a charming film that highlights Dharmendra’s flair for light-hearted storytelling — a side of him audiences often overlook.
3. Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971)
Where to watch: Prime Video
In this Raj Khosla classic, Dharmendra plays Ajit, a reformed petty criminal who finds redemption by defending a village terrorised by Vinod Khanna’s menacing Jabbar Singh. The film marked a turning point in his career, mixing grit with romantic depth as Ajit learns to fight not just for survival but for honour and belonging. His presence elevates the film into one of the defining action dramas of the 70s.
4. Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)
Where to watch: ZEE5
Nasir Hussain’s musical thriller features Dharmendra as Shankar, the eldest of three brothers separated after witnessing their parents’ murder. His brooding intensity and emotional turmoil form the spine of the film. As he unknowingly crosses paths with his younger siblings years later, Dharmendra’s performance captures both anguish and longing, making the reunion moments all the more poignant.
5. Anupama (1966)
Where to watch: Prime Video
Hrishikesh Mukherjee cast Dharmendra in one of his most tender roles — Ashok, a thoughtful poet who sees beyond the quiet sadness of Uma, played by Sharmila Tagore. His gentle empathy becomes the catalyst for her rediscovery of self-worth. The film highlights Dharmendra’s remarkable ability to communicate emotion through silence, proving he was as effective in delicate dramas as he was in action spectacles.
6. Haqeeqat (1964)
Where to watch: ZEE5
Chetan Anand’s war epic features Dharmendra as Captain Bahadur Singh, part of a doomed platoon during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The film remains one of Indian cinema’s strongest war dramas, and Dharmendra’s restrained, deeply human performance stands out. His portrayal underscores the despair and fleeting hope of soldiers trapped in an unwinnable battle.
7. Sholay (1975)
Where to watch: Prime Video
No Dharmendra list is complete without Ramesh Sippy’s towering classic. As the lovable, impulsive and heroic Veeru, he delivers one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic performances. Whether romancing Basanti, teasing Jai, or challenging Gabbar Singh, Dharmendra infuses Veeru with unmatched energy and heart. His comedic timing, emotional honesty and raw charisma helped cement Sholay as the country’s greatest masala film, and his role is unforgettable.