Latest news with #Pratiggya
News18
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Dharmendra Says He Recommended Amitabh Bachchan For Jai's Role In Sholay: 'But He Got The Part…'
Last Updated: Dharmendra recalls recommending Amitabh Bachchan for Sholay, shares behind-the-scenes stories, and why he loves Pratiggya over the blockbuster. Sholay 50 Years: Veteran actor Dharmendra recently opened up about the legendary shoot of Sholay and the experiences that shaped his career. Speaking with SCREEN, he reflected on the gruelling schedules, memorable moments with co-stars and why Dulal Guha's Pratiggya remains closest to his heart. He said he never thought Sholay would go on to become a blockbuster. 'I didn't [expect Sholay to be such a milestone]," Dharmendra said. 'Of course, we worked very hard on the film. The shoots on the outskirts of Bangalore were gruelling. There were no hotels around. We had to drive down to the location 50 kilometres away from Bangalore every day. But it was a lot of fun. Lots of memories. Hema was there with me. Jaya was there; she was expecting her first child." Dharmendra had nothing but praise for his co-star, Sanjeev Kapoor. 'He was exceptional in every sense. What a human being and what an actor! I had the privilege of working with him in another exceptional film, Satyakam, where we played friends." When asked to compare Satyakam and Sholay, Dharmendra joked, 'That is very hard to answer. Hrishida [Mukherjee] and Ramesh Sippy were very different directors. It is like comparing Lata Mangeshkar with Asha Bhosle." Pratiggya: Dharmendra's Personal Favourite Movie Despite Sholay's massive success, Dharmendra says Pratiggya holds a special place. 'I love Dulal Guha's Pratiggya the most because it was a really tough role. I had to play a truck driver who masquerades as a cop. It was like playing a role within a role. It was a layered character with lots of emotions and drama. I had made to make people laugh all the way. But there was an undercurrent of emotions. It was a challenge. And people loved me in it." He added, 'Though Satyakam and Sholay are among my favourites, my all-time favourite is Pratiggya. It came during the same year 1975 as Sholay, so it went unnoticed. But let me tell you, Pratiggya was a super hit in spite of competition from Sholay." Memories From The Sholay Set Dharmendra also shared stories about casting choices. 'Yes, I did put in a word for Bachchan Saab [Amitabh Bachchan] to Ramesh Sippy. But he finally got the part on merit." On playing Veeru, he said, 'No, I was very happy playing Veeru. It is the part that chose me, more than I chose it." First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Dharmendra says Sholay is not his all-time favourite, chooses this lesser-known film
Dharamji, did you ever expect Sholay to be such a milestone in your career? No, I didn't. Of course, we worked very hard on the film. The shoots on the outskirts of Bangalore were gruelling. There were no hotels around. We had to drive down to the location 50 kilometers away from Bangalore every day. But it was a lot of fun. Lots of memories. Hema was there with me. Jaya was there; she was expecting her first child. What was Sanjeev Kumar like as a co-star? He was exceptional in every sense. What a human being and what an actor! I had the privilege of working with him in another exceptional film, Satyakam, where we played friends. Satyakam or Sholay, which is your preferred film? That is very hard to answer. Hrishida (Mukherjee) and Ramesh Sippy were very different directors. It is like comparing Lata Mangeshkar with Asha Bhosle. Does Sholay's magnitude of success surprise you? I will tell you one thing. In 1975, just two months before Sholay, I had another release which no one is talking about. I love Dulal Guha's Pratiggya the most because it was a really tough role. I had to play a truck driver who masquerades as a cop. It was like playing a role within a role. It was a layered character with lots of emotions and drama. I had made to make people laugh all the way. But there was an undercurrent of emotions. It was a challenge. And people loved me in it. So, is Pratiggya a bigger personal favourite? Though Satyakam and Sholay are among my favorites, my all-time favorite is Pratiggya. It came during the same year 1975 as Sholay, so it went unnoticed. But let me tell you, Pratiggya was a super hit in spite of competition from Sholay. Just like in 1971, when Naya Zamana clicked despite a blockbuster like Mera Gaon Mera Desh. They were such different films. I am very fond of Naya Zamana because it was based on Bengali literature .The film had beautiful dialogues. Bachchan Saab says you recommended him for his role in Sholay? (laughs) It is sweet of him to remember. Yes, I did put in a word for him to Ramesh Sippy. But he finally got the part on merit. Also Read | Sholay turns 50: Thakur's consuming obsession with vengeance destroyed so much and yielded so little Bachchan Saab wanted to play Gabbar Singh. Did you also want that part? No, I was very happy playing Veeru. It is the part that chose me , more than I chose it.
Time of India
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Dharmendra shares rare romantic throwback with Hema Malini from a 70s classic
Dharmendra, at 89, recently evoked nostalgia by sharing a romantic still from his 1975 hit 'Pratiggya' with Hema Malini, reminding fans of their iconic on-screen chemistry. The film, a box office success known for its action and music, still resonates with audiences today. He continues to inspire with his fitness, recently sharing a gym picture. Even at 89, Dharmendra proves that age is just a number—whether it's charming fans with a throwback to his romantic classics or impressing them with his fitness routine. The legendary actor recently took fans on a nostalgic ride as he revisited Pratiggya, his 1975 hit with Hema Malini , sharing a romantic still that rekindled memories of their on-screen magic. A Picture That Still Speaks Volumes Dharmendra recently shared a candid still with Hema Malini from their romantic action-comedy Pratiggya on his Instagram Stories. The photo, captured during the song 'Uth Nind Se Miziya Jaag Ja'—sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi—features Hema in a pink salwar suit and Dharmendra making a dashing entry on horseback. Decades later, the scene still captures the duo's effortless chemistry, both on-screen and off. Box Office Gold and Timeless Music Pratiggya struck a perfect balance between action and slapstick comedy, becoming one of the biggest box office hits of its release year. The film also boasts a memorable soundtrack, featuring evergreen numbers like 'Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana,' 'Main Jangal Ki Morni,' 'Pardesi Aaya Des Mein,' and 'Uth Nind Se Mirziya Jaag Ja.' Among them, 'Uth Nind Se Miziya Jaag Ja' remains a fan favourite even today, cherished for its melody, visuals, and the undeniable chemistry between Dharmendra and Hema Malini. Plot, Cast, and Creative Minds Behind Pratiggya The action-comedy Pratiggya follows Dharmendra as a truck driver on a mission to avenge his parents' murder, with Hema Malini playing his spirited companion. Directed by Dulal Guha and produced by Dharmendra and B.S. Deol, the film also features Ajit, Johnny Walker , Jagdeep, Mukri, Mehar Mittal, and Keshto Mukherjee. Its popular soundtrack was composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal, with lyrics by Anand Bakshi. At 89, Dharmendra continues to inspire fans with his timeless charm and dedication to fitness. In a recent Instagram Story, the veteran actor shared a new picture of himself at the gym, seated on a low chair amidst workout equipment. His strong presence and unwavering discipline continue to leave fans in awe.
News18
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Dharmendra Reminisces One Of His Romantic Films Of The 70s With Hema Malini
Last Updated: Dharmendra posted an iconic picture from one of his romantic movies, titled Pratiggya, featuring Hema Malini. Veteran actor Dharmendra recently looked back at one of the iconic moments from his 1975 movie, Pratiggya, which featured his wife, Hema Malini. The madly in love duo have painted the town red with their numerous romantic movies, including Azaad, Dillagi, Dream Girl, Jugnu, Razia Sultan, and many others. But for fans, Pratiggya has etched a special place in the hearts of many. On his Instagram Stories, Dharmendra posted a candid photo with Hema Malini from their romantic action comedy movie Pratiggya. The picture was reportedly captured from the song sequence of 'Uth Nind Se Miziya Jaag Ja", sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi. In the romantic song, the free-spirited actress was seen dressed in a pink salwar suit while the actor looked handsome as ever as he entered the frame riding a horse. To date, the still from the movie showcases the lead pair's chemistry, which was not only popular on-screen but also in real life. Blending action sequences with slapstick comedy, Pratiggya was a commercial success and one of the top grossers of the year of its release. It features four memorable songs, including 'Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana", 'Main Jangal Ki Morni", 'Pardesi Aaya Des Mein" and 'Uth Nind Se Mirziya Jaag Ja". Among them, 'Uth Nind Se Miziya Jaag Ja" is one of the most favourite songs to date. Check out the song here: The action comedy film, Pratiggya, features Dharmendra as a truck driver who sets out to avenge his parents' murder. He stars opposite his lady love, Hema Malini, who accompanies him on his revengeful journey. Produced by Dharmendra and B. S. Deol, the movie also stars Ajit, Johnny Walker, Jagdeep, Mukri, Mehar Mittal and Keshto Mukherjee in key roles. Directed by Dulal Guha, its music was composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal and the lyricist was Anand Bakshi. The 89-year-old actor continues to inspire many with his timeless charm. On his Instagram stories, Dharmendra posted yet another picture of himself from the current times as he hit the Gym. He was seen sitting on a low chair among various gym equipments. Indeed, his aura and strong personality left many in awe of his fitness. First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:13 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Dharmendra: I was offered the role of Gabbar and Thakur...But I wanted to play Veeru as he is so much like me
says Sholay could easily be considered ' duniya ka aathwan ajooba .' And for the fans of the 1975 cult classic, it's hard to disagree. The film marks its 50th anniversary this year as its restored version premieres in Italy. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In a recent chat, the veteran actor spoke to us about his favourite memories of Sholay. 'MY FAVOURITE SCENE FROM SHOLAY IS THE DEATH OF AMITABH BACHCHAN 'S CHARACTER' ' Aur jaan daal di FHF (Film Heritage Foundation) ne ,' says Dharmendra about the film's restoration. Talking about his favourite scenes from the film, the actor shares, ' Tanki wala scene, temple wala scene log kaafi pasand karte hain . Aur bhi aise kai scene hain jo kaafi pasand hain mujhe .' But the moment that lingers most for him is the emotional turning point of the film. 'My favourite scene from Sholay is the death of Amitabh Bachchan's (character). Woh jahan marte hain, wahan zindagi puri picture mein palta kha jati hai . That was the best scene. Do doston ke jo emotion thay woh aate hain ,' he says. 'MAIN CHARACTER MEIN CHALA JAATA HOON' When asked how he prepares for a scene like that? Dharmendra scoffs at the idea of preparation. 'To me, nothing is difficult. Main koi practice nahi karta . Main Dharmendra nahi lagta wahan – main Veeru hi lagta hoon . Pratiggya (1975) mein bhi wohi lagta hoon . Om Prakash ke saath jab Hindi boli thi (as Pyarelal in Chupke Chupke ) toh wohi lagta hoon , Dharmendra nahi lagta . Baaki maine dekha kai actor wohi lagte hain jo woh hain . Main character mein chala jaata hoon . Mujhe toh second lagta hai .' 'The real hero is the coin in Sholay'Whenever Jai and Veeru have to make a decision in Sholay , they flip a coin and it always seems to fall in Jai's favour. It's only in the climax that Veeru realises Jai used a trick coin with heads on both sides. Referring to the coin, Dharmendra says, 'Every character is a hero in the film. But the real hero is the coin.'
