大象传媒

In this Asian Network Presents special, we hear from Dharmendra, the man often described as the 'original action hero' of Bollywood.

As a child, he watched the 1948 film Shaheed and there was no looking back for Dharmendra. He dreamt that one day he would also become an actor like the great Dilip Kumar.

With stars in his eyes he entered a film talent contest and his dreams became a reality. He defeated thousands of hopefuls and came to Mumbai in the '60s.

His first role was in Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere (1960) and even though the film went unnoticed, Dharmendra knew he would one day make his mark in the industry.

And he was right. Films like Anpadh (1962), Ayee Milan Ki Bela (1964) and Phool Aur Paththar (1966) followed. The young Punjabi newcomer was paired with the biggest actresses of the time including Nutan, Meena Kumari and Sharmila Tagore.

With his romantic looks, humorous charm and yet macho image he conquered the hearts of millions around the world.

Nick-named Garam Dharam, he's starred in a dozens of successful films in a career that's spanned five decades, including Loafer (1973), Pratigya (1975), Dharam Veer (1977), Naukar Biwi Ka (1983) and Apne (2007).

And of course, Dharmendra's portrayal of the lovable Veeru in the blockbuster Sholay (1975) will never be forgotten.

In this special, Dharmendra talks about his childhood, his early days in the industry and his co-stars. He shares stories from the sets of some of his biggest films and talks about his sons Sunny and Bobby and his daughter Esha, all of whom have followed him into Bollywood.