A MORNING OF MEMORIES, A DIALOGUE OF INSPIRATION
The gentle winter sunlight streamed through our office blinds that morning, creating a cosy, peaceful atmosphere. The warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the quiet hum of calculators, adding to the sense of calm. However, there was a quiet stillness in the air-a shared moment of reflection. We had just received the sad news that Dharmendra Ji, the beloved hero of Indian cinema, had left us, leaving a gentle emptiness behind. Yet, his bravery, humility, and joyful spirit continue to inspire us all. Looking around, I saw my young GST team, CA Amit, CA Rohit, and CA Pooja-sitting quietly, their usual lively energy replaced by thoughtful silence. I offered a warm smile and gently said, "Don't be so serious. Legends like Dharmendra Ji never truly leave us; they simply move from this world to eternity." That small gesture helped lighten the mood, turning our moment into a heartfelt exchange of admiration and appreciation. Soon, we found ourselves sharing stories of the lesser-known sides of a man who showed that true strength can be gentle, that a humble smile leaves a lasting legacy, and that genuine success never fades.
When Admiration Turned into Reflection
As we settled into our chairs with coffee mugs in hand, our conversation gently shifted from news to stories. We weren't just reminiscing about a superstar who had thrilled audiences for generations; we were celebrating a man whose values truly inspired us. His films may have lit up screens, but his kindness and principles truly touched real lives - and that's what makes Dharmendra Ji so unforgettable. We all started sharing the qualities that made him so special: his humility despite fame, his sense of humour even in tough times, his loyalty, his simplicity, his poetic spirit, and his graceful aging. I told the team, "Let's focus on how he lived - not how he died. Every attribute he displayed teaches us how to face life - and fear - with bravery." And that's how our heartfelt chat began - a spontaneous lesson in kindness and strength, inspired by the timeless lessons of a man who never needed a classroom to teach.
1. Roots & Humility - The Teacher's Son Who Stayed Grounded
CA Raj Jaggi: You know, Amit, before the world called him "He-Man," he was just the schoolmaster's son from Nasrali village. His father, Shri Kewal Krishan Singh Deol, was a humble teacher, but what he taught his son became the syllabus of greatness. "Insaan ban pehle, hero to duniya bana degi," he would tell him - "Be a good human first; the world will make you a hero later."
Those lessons stayed lifelong. Even at the peak of fame, when producers queued for a handshake, Dharmendra Ji folded his hands and greeted them with a gentle "Sat Sri Akal, Ji." Stardom couldn't rewrite his roots. He was proud of being a son of the soil - grounded, grateful, and genuine.
CA Amit: Sir, that's rare today - staying simple while standing tall.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly. The higher a tree climbs, the deeper its roots must hold. For us too, it's simple: values create velocity. Degrees and designations may open doors, but only decency keeps them open. Dharmendra Ji's humility is a professional lesson - deliver excellence without ego, take applause without entitlement, and let your work speak while your heart stays quiet. The world admires skill, but it remembers grace.
2. Straightforward & Self-Made - Clean Effort, Clean Legacy
CA Pooja: Sir, it's inspiring how he reached such heights without a godfather or glamorous launch.
CA Raj Jaggi: Absolutely, Pooja. His story isn't about luck - it's about labour. When he arrived in Bombay, he was filled with dreams in one hand and determination in the other. godfather, no PR machinery, no social media - just a burning desire to prove himself through work. The first few years were difficult. Rejections came like rain. But instead of complaining, he kept improving. He polished his speech, refined his expressions, and trained himself in front of a mirror until he could make silence speak.
He often expressed, "Main dil se kaam karta hoon, dikhawa nahin." ("I work from the heart - I don't perform pretence.") and that simple statement truly reflects the core of his legacy. He earned his reputation not through connections, but through genuine conviction. In a field where shortcuts can be tempting, he decided to walk the honest and sincere path - and that truly made all the difference.
Even when success finally arrived with Phool Aur Patthar (1966), he didn't let fame overshadow faith. He became a star, yes - but more importantly, he remained a student of his craft. From romantic roles to emotional dramas to patriotic sagas, he carried the same simplicity and truth that had taken him from Punjab's soil to Bombay's skyline.
Song Memory:"तुमबिनजाऊंकहाँ,केदुनियामेंआकेकुछभीनपाया,तुमबिनजाऊंकहाँ,केदिलनेतुम्हेंहीचाहा…"(Film: Pyar Hi Pyar, 1969 - Sung by Mohammed Rafi)
This song, filmed on Dharmendra Ji, feels almost autobiographical. The "you" here could be his faith - his faith in sincerity, in goodness, in hard work. It was as if he was singing to his principles, reminding himself never to part ways with them. His journey tells us that faith in one's values is the purest form of confidence.
CA Amit: Sir, it's fantastic - in every interview, he still sounded so simple, like someone who never got intoxicated by fame.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly, Amit. That's the power of straightforwardness. You don't lose yourself trying to please everyone. You do what's right and let results follow. Dharmendra Ji never chased image - he built integrity. His life is proof that if you keep your heart honest and your effort consistent, success will find you, even if the road is long.
CA Pooja: Sir, that's such a strong message for us professionals, too. Sometimes we get tempted to take quick routes.
CA Raj Jaggi: True, Pooja. Shortcuts may take you ahead in distance, but never in depth. Every honest effort adds invisible strength to your foundation - and one day, the world sees that strength as "overnight success." Dharmendra Ji didn't arrive overnight; he arrived through nights of struggle, sweat, and silent learning.So, here's the lesson: Work clean, dream clear, walk straight. Because, as Dharmendra Ji showed, when effort is honest, legacy becomes eternal.
3. Humour as Courage - The Smile That Softened Storms
CA Amit: Sir, what amazes me most about Dharmendra Ji is that even when life tested him, he never looked bitter. He always carried that mischievous smile, as if saying, "Come what may, I'll handle it with grace.
CA Raj Jaggi: Amit, that's so beautifully expressed. You know, for most people, laughter is just a reaction - but for Dharmendra Ji, it was really a response. There's a subtle but essential difference. A reaction is often quick and temporary; a response comes from a deeper place of thought. His laughter wasn't about denial - it was about defiance. A gentle yet powerful statement that joy is my choice, not merely a stroke of luck from life.
He went through his share of pain - personal setbacks, emotional struggles, and the heavy demands of stardom - but he never let sorrow define who he was. Instead, his humour became his healing. When he joked around, people didn't just laugh - they felt lighter, happier. His presence naturally radiated positive energy. On the sets, Hrishikesh Mukherjee often said, "If Dharmendra is smiling, the whole crew works better."His laughter wasn't loud or boisterous; it was warm and kind. He had a special way of easing tension with a simple line, brightening a gloomy mood with a wink, and bringing dignity to humour that made everyone feel included and appreciated.
CA Pooja: Sir, it's rare today to see someone laugh without sarcasm. His humour seemed pure.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly, Pooja. His humour always uplifted rather than mocked. It wasn't about winning arguments; it was about winning hearts. He didn't use jokes to hide feelings, but to elevate emotions. That's why even comedians admired him - because he shared laughter without arrogance. That wonderful sense of humour came from true courage. It takes real bravery to laugh when the world expects you to fall apart. Many can lift weights, but few can lift spirits - and Dharmendra Ji did just that every day, both on screen and off.
He could transition effortlessly from the heartfelt emotional scenes in Satyakam to the charming mischief of Chupke. Chupke with effortless fluidity. That balance comes only when the mind is strong and the heart is light. His humour was never forced; it was the by-product of inner peace.
CA Rohit: Sir, sometimes I think laughter was his way of expressing gratitude too.
CA Raj Jaggi: Absolutely, Rohit. He often shared, "Main zyada hasata hoon kyunki zyada dukh dekhe hain." ("I make others laugh more because I've seen more pain.") That's a beautiful example of true maturity - turning pain into a reason to spread joy. Instead of letting his hurt bring him down, he chose to spread happiness around him. For us, as professionals, that's a truly priceless lesson. Pressure, deadlines, and client expectations can weigh us down if we forget to keep things light. But a cheerful attitude doesn't mean the work gets easier; it just makes the load feel lighter. When a leader wears a smile, even the toughest stress becomes a little easier to bear.
CA Pooja: Sir, you're right. Even during strict audits, one light comment can make everyone breathe again.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly, Pooja. Humour is an excellent leadership tool - a compassionate one. It shows people, "We can face this, together." Dharmendra Ji's smile did precisely that. It brought people together. It reminded us all that strength doesn't mean being stern and intimidating. He taught us that true courage isn't always loud and boisterous; sometimes it's the gentle ability to laugh even when others are frowning. It's about choosing not to give up your sunshine just because the sky looks a bit cloudy.
Here's a little wisdom we can gather from him - let humour be your shield, not your getaway. It might not wipe out challenges, but it will help you stand taller than them. Fear hesitates before a smile, and Dharmendra Ji's smile wasn't just a simple facial expression - it was the clearest link between the heart and hope.
Poetic Sensitivity - Strength Refined by Feeling
CA Pooja: Sir, people often talk about Dharmendra Ji's looks and charisma, but very few mention his emotional depth. Was he really that sensitive off-screen too?
CA Raj Jaggi: Oh yes, Pooja. Behind that strong, handsome frame lies the soul of a poet. He's as emotional as he is disciplined - a wonderfully rare blend. In interviews, he often shared, "Main jazbaat se bhara aadmi hoon, zindagi ko mehsoos karta hoon." ("I'm a man full of emotions; I feel life deeply.") That wasn't just words to build an image; it was a reflection of his true self. He adored Urdu poetry, reading Ghalib and Sahir, and even crafting his own couplets - gentle, heartfelt, filled with humanity. His poetic essence wasn't limited to words alone; it showed in his actions, his smiles, his pauses, and even when he cried. Watching him in Satyakam, Anupama, or Jeevan Mrityu, you don't see a hero acting; you see a man truly feeling. That's the purest form of poetic sensitivity. It's not about perfect rhymes; it's about capturing the rhythm of life - the rhythm that moves us empathy.
CA Rohit: Sir, that explains why his emotional scenes always felt real. Even his silence spoke.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly, Rohit. True sensitivity isn't just about tears - it's about honesty and feeling. Dharmendra Ji never pretended his emotions. His expressions came straight from lived experience, from understanding people, pain, and love. His sensitivity wasn't a sign of weakness; it was a sign of awareness. This awareness helped him truly connect with his audience, not through grand displays but through genuine soulfulness. He once shared that when he depicted pain on screen, he thought of the tough days when he lived in a small rented room far from his family, writing heartfelt letters to his mother in Punjab. That memory stayed with him, bringing his characters to life. When he smiled, it carried the relief of having endured sorrow, and when he cried, it felt deeply personal-because it was.
CA Amit: Sir, isn't it rare that someone so strong could also be so gentle?
CA Raj Jaggi: That's the wonderful thing about true strength, Amit-it's always gentle. Many people mistake strength for aggression, but Dharmendra Ji showed us otherwise. He proved that absolute masculinity can be tender, thoughtful, and poetic. His voice could roar in Phool Aur Patthar, yet it could also softly whisper wisdom in Chupke Chupke(1975). This beautiful balance came from emotional intelligence-the skill of understanding both yourself and others. He often preferred writing down his feelings rather than arguing about them. Once, a journalist asked him why he rarely reacted sharply to criticism, and he replied, "Kavi gussa nahi karta, likh leta hai." ("A poet doesn't get angry-he writes it down.") That one heartfelt sentence captures his philosophy perfectly: convert pain into creation, not confrontation.
CA Pooja: Sir, that's such a beautiful way to live-to feel deeply but never let feelings make you weak.
CA Raj Jaggi: Indeed, Pooja, there's so much we can learn from him as professionals, too. Sensitivity isn't a weakness but a tremendous strength when we practice self-control. It allows us to understand others more deeply, connect with clients through empathy, and lead our teams with compassion. Remember, you can't truly inspire those around you unless you genuinely care for them first. Dharmendra Ji's poetic heart gently reminds us that in a world driven by numbers, we must hold onto the music of our emotions. By balancing logic with warmth, precision with patience, and firmness with empathy, we create a harmonious approach. When your heart understands as much as your mind analyses, you transcend being just a professional-you become a compassionate human leader who guides with soul.
CA Raj Jaggi (smiling): Dharmendra Ji showed us that the strongest men are not those who never bend, but those who can bend without breaking-and rise again with kindness in their eyes. That's poetry in motion.
5. Loyalty & Team Spirit - Friendship as a Principle
CA Rohit: Sir, if I were to pick one image that defines Dharmendra Ji, it would be him as Veeru in Sholay. That role made friendship immortal.
CA Raj Jaggi, I agree entirely with you, Rohit. Sholay might not have invented the idea of friendship, but it certainly celebrated the deep bond of friendship memorably. captured what Dharmendra Ji already lived by. He believed in people more than in publicity, in relationships more than in roles. His loyalty wasn't limited to co-stars or directors; it extended to everyone who worked with him, from the Lightman to the camera assistant. That warmth wasn't strategy-it was sincerity. Even in an industry where alliances often shift with success, Dharmendra Ji remained constant. He was the kind of friend who never competed; he completed others. His bond with Amitabh Bachchan Ji, Hema Malini Ji, Meena Kumari Ji, and so many contemporaries stood the test of time because it was based on respect, not relevance. He celebrated others' success as if it were his own. When younger actors approached him for advice, he never made them feel small. He would pat their back and say, "Mehnat karo beta, Bhagwan sab dega."[Work hard, my son, God shall bless you with everything]. Simple words, but they carried the weight of lived truth. That was Dharmendra Ji-significant in heart, not in ego.
CA Pooja: Sir, I think that's why people still call him the most loved star rather than just the most handsome one.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly, Pooja. Love truly is the most beautiful legacy we can leave behind. Dharmendra Ji's idea of friendship went beyond just movies. He treasured loyalty not only in his work but also in his family life. He was always there for his loved ones, caring for his children, patiently guiding Sunny and Bobby, and quietly supporting Hema Malini Ji in her artistic journey without ever feeling threatened. Such loyalty is a rarity these days, in a world full of comparisons. He showed us that love and dignity can peacefully coexist, and that standing by someone's dreams is an actual act of greatness.
CA Amit: Sir, that's so true, even in our profession. Loyalty seems old-fashioned now-everyone is chasing opportunities instead of relationships.
CA Raj Jaggi: That's precisely why Dharmendra Ji's life truly resonates with us, Amit. Loyalty isn't just about sticking around when it's easy; it's about standing firm through uncertain times. In our work as well, loyalty fosters trust-the unseen bond that keeps relationships strong. Whether it's with clients, colleagues, or friends, supporting people through their lows earns you a special place in their hearts forever. Dharmendra Ji's friendships weren't just agreements-they were heartfelt commitments. He often shared that what truly matters is "dil se jeena aur dil se nibhana." ("Living from the heart and honouring relationships with heart.") That simple idea captures his entire outlook on life. It's not about being perfect; it's about being present. His loyalty came from deep gratitude. He never forgot where he started, who stood by him, and the core values that kept him grounded. Even at the height of his fame, he always remembered that saying "thank you" is just as important as success.
CA Rohit: Sir, that's beautiful. I think that's why even today, people from every generation feel connected to him.
CA Raj Jaggi: Absolutely, Rohit. Loyalty has an exceptional warmth that lasts longer than fleeting fame. When the spotlight dims, it's the genuine relationships that keep your name shining brightly. Dharmendra Ji reminded us that a career rooted in loyalty can last much longer than one based solely on cleverness. He showed us that being dependable is truly a mark of greatness. In a time when many weigh every benefit carefully, he demonstrated that those who rely on others with honesty are remembered much longer than those focused only on profits.
CA Pooja (smiling): So, in a way, Sir, his story tells us that true friendship is not about selfies and posts-it's about standing silently beside someone when they need you the most.
CA Raj Jaggi: Exactly, Pooja. And that applies not just to friendship but to leadership. When your team knows you will stand by them even when things go wrong, they'll walk with you even when things are tough. Loyalty is not a skill-it's a signal of integrity. Dharmendra Ji never needed to say, "I'm loyal"; his actions said it for him. So, remember this, friends-fame fades, fortune fluctuates, but faithfulness forever flourishes. Dharmendra Ji lived by that truth, and that's why his name is not just written in film history-it's etched in people's hearts.
6. Beyond Stardom - The Strength of Simplicity and the Grace of Growth
CA Amit: Sir, apart from all these qualities, what else, in your opinion, made Dharmendra Ji stand apart for so many decades?
CA Raj Jaggi: Amit had a wonderfully complex personality, full of inspiring resilience. He watched fame come and go, saw the film industry evolve, and witnessed audience tastes shift, yet he never let it get to him or lose his steadiness. He embraced each part of his journey with calm and grace. While many fear being forgotten, he stayed grateful, showing true courage-the kind of strength that comes from accepting change wholeheartedly dignity.
CA Rohit: Sir, he also looked remarkably fit and active even in later years.
CA Raj: That was the result of his unwavering discipline. He genuinely believed that simplicity helps keep a person strong. Early mornings, light meals, regular workouts, and prayers - these weren't just habits for him; they were a fundamental part of his life. He often shared, "Zindagi tab takkhoobsurat hai, jab takniyam hai." ("Life stays beautiful as long as it stays disciplined.") His daily routine truly showed his deep respect for time and health - treasures he cherished and never overlooked.
CA Pooja: Sir, he also seemed very devoted to his family.
CA Raj: Absolutely, Pooja. His love for his family was quiet yet profoundly deep. He gently guided Sunny and Bobby Deol with affection rather than authority. He wished for them to find success on their own terms, in an encouraging and supportive way. He admired Hema Malini Ji's dedication to her craft and quietly stood by her side, never overshadowing her talent. That's what true partnership is all about - standing beside someone's dreams with respect and understanding.
CA Amit: Sir, even in old age, he radiated such cheer.
CA Raj: That's very true, Amit. His graceful aging truly serves as his most beautiful lesson. Even at 89, he radiated warmth with a smile that felt childlike, always expressing gratitude to fans and colleagues for their love. There was no trace of bitterness or self-pity-only pure gratitude. He embraced every wrinkle as a mark of life's experience and saw each grey hair as a crown of blessings. He beautifully demonstrated that ageing isn't about fading away; it's about shining in a new, different way.
CA Pooja: Sir, if I may say, his life feels like a complete circle - strong, disciplined, kind, and peaceful.
CA Raj (smiling): Well, expressed, Pooja. Dharmendra Ji's life was like a gentle river - always moving forward with calmness and clarity. His resilience allowed him to keep flowing, his discipline helped him stay steady, his love gave him depth, and his gratitude kept him pure. That's the way legends live - not loud, but shining brightly.
THE ETERNAL MESSAGE: COURAGE NEVER DIES
The office had fallen silent once more. The coffee mugs sat empty, but our hearts were full of warmth. For a little while, nobody spoke. It was as if Dharmendra Ji was right there with us - listening quietly, smiling gently, blessing us with that silent, caring warmth he always carried.
CA Raj Jaggi: You know, my friends, some people aren't just part of history - they truly embody humanity. Dharmendra Ji was one of those special souls. He didn't create a legacy through power or politics; he did it through genuine purity. Every role he played, every smile he shared, and every act of kindness off-screen became a quiet reminder to live bravely and gracefully.
Courage, as Dharmendra Ji demonstrated, isn't just about battling external challenges; it's about conquering the ones inside. It's about getting up each time you fall, forgiving yourself when you're hurt, finding joy in laughter even when you're tired, and steadily moving forward when everything around seems still. His life beautifully reflects this inner victory - a gentle reminder that true strength doesn't always have to shout; sometimes, it's as simple and powerful as a warm smile.
CA Amit: Sir, his journey truly proves that real heroes don't need capes - just character.
CA Raj (smiling): Absolutely, Amit. True heroes don't seek applause-they earn it through their actions. Dharmendra Ji's story reminds us that no dream is ever too small, no failure is final, and no heart is too delicate to try again. He started with nothing but faith and ended up with what truly counts: respect, love, and peace.
Whenever life puts us to the test, let's think of him - the schoolteacher's son who achieved He achieved great fame while remaining humble, consistently embodying the spirit of simplicity and continuous learning. The man who turned every challenge into a story of bravery. Legends never truly fade away; they leave behind inspiring blueprints for all of us to follow.
He demonstrated that while the body may age, character remains timeless. When lights fade, gratitude continues to shine, and when a life concludes, its courage lights the path for someone new.
A Poetic Tribute to Dharmendra Ji
"जोमुस्कुराहटसेलड़ेथेहालातोंसे,वोहरआँसूमेंआजभीचमकतेहैं।धर्मेन्द्रजैसेलोगकहींजातेनहीं,वोयादोंकेरूपमेंहीबसतेहैं।"
English Translation: Those who fought life's storms with smiles still sparkle softly in every tear.Men like Dharmendra never truly depart -They live on, wherever hearts hold them dear.
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