Renowned actor Dharmendra recently shared how he played a crucial role in helping megastar Amitabh Bachchan secure the role of Jai in the iconic 1975 film Sholay, directed by Ramesh Sippy.

In a conversation with ANI, Dharmendra mentioned, "It has already been mentioned. Yes, I recommended him. He used to come to meet me. Mr. Amitabh. He used to sit next to me. So I told Ramesh Sippy ji that this new guy has a great voice and will do good work. I found his inner desire to love himself beautiful. I told him to take Amitabh Bachchan for the role."

Initially, the role was offered to Shatrughan Sinha, but Dharmendra's recommendation led to Amitabh Bachchan ultimately landing the part. Sholay follows the story of the village of Ramgarh, where two criminals, Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (Dharmendra), help a retired police chief bring down a notorious bandit named Gabbar Singh.

Reflecting on his experience working on Sholay, Dharmendra expressed, "This film, in my opinion, is timeless."

About Dharmendra's Career

Dharmendra began his acting journey in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He rose to fame in the mid-1960s with movies like Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke.

Throughout the late-1960s to the 1980s, Dharmendra starred in numerous successful films such as Ankhen, Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, and many more, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor.

Dharmendra's Upcoming Projects

Despite a long and successful career, Dharmendra believes his best work is yet to come. He teased about his upcoming project 'Ikkis' directed by Sriram Raghavan, set to release on October 2.

Additionally, Dharmendra is all set to reunite with actor Arbaaz Khan after 27 years for the film 'Maine Pyaar Kiya Phir Se', with shooting scheduled to begin soon and a release date slated for November 2025.

Source: Hindustan Times