When Dharmendra revealed he wanted to die working: ‘I believe in dying with my boots on’

When Dharmendra talked about his passion for acting

Bollywood said goodbye to one of its most recognisable stars, Dharmendra, on November 24, a few days before he was scheduled to celebrate his 90th birthday on December 8.

Fans and the film industry were devastated by the legendary actor's death at the age of 89. The actor had been hospitalised earlier in the month due to illness.

Even though some thought Dharmendra's career in film was coming to an end in the early 1980s, he was never one to quietly retire.

In 1983, when questions about his future in films arose, he confidently replied to Hindustan Times, “As an actor, I believe in dying with my boots on. And in that respect, ‘the end’ is certainly nowhere near as far as I can tell you.”

At the time, he also acknowledged scaling back deliberately, saying, “However, I don't grudge or envy anybody anything. By the grace of God, I have enough films even today, and some of the top producers and banners never think twice about repeating me.”

Dharmendra further clarified, “I'm definitely not out. Maybe I have just been a bit out of the news of late because film magazines have new, young stars to gossip about now, but most of the new films you've mentioned have been in a state of production for some time.”

With Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, the actor made his stage debut in 1960 and soon became known for his versatility. With films like Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke, he had gained popularity by the middle of the 1960s.

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With standout roles in Ankhen, Shikar, Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke, Jeevan Mrityu, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, and numerous other films, Dharmendra ruled the silver screen from the 1960s through the 1980s, solidifying his place as one of Hindi cinema's most enduring stars.

In keeping with his pledge to "die with his boots on," Dharmendra's legacy lives on in his last movie, Ikkis, which stars Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat.

The movie, which is slated for release on December 25, represents yet another significant achievement in a career spanning more than 60 years.