Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89, left behind countless memories and stories that still resonate with fans. One such widely discussed story is how the actor received only Rs 51 as payment for his debut film.
The film for which he received his first payment was Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960), it marked Dharmendra’s entry into the Hindi film industry. According to NDTV, the three producers contributed Rs 17 each to pay him a total of Rs 51.
He calls it his lucky zodiac sign
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Dharmendra revealed the story on the reality TV show Dance Deewane 3. He said he was called to a manufacturer’s office with three cubicles, sitting in the middle and wondering how much they would pay him. He was surprised when each of the three producers gave him Rs 17. He always considered those 51 rupees as a lucky charm.
Dharmendra was quoted by NDTV as saying on the show, “I was selected for the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tera. I was called to sign the film. There were three cabins and I sat in the middle cabin and was wondering how much they would pay me. All three producers took out Rs 17 each from their pockets and gave me a total of Rs 51. I consider those Rs 51 very lucky for me.”
From Rs 51 to stardom
From that modest Rs 51, Dharmendra became one of the most iconic stars of Bollywood. Over the years, he has given many hit films and has earned a reputation as a versatile actor. Even after his death, he is appreciated for his acting performance and humble nature.
(Also Read: Dharmendra Net Worth: How much fame the veteran actor has achieved in Bollywood in six decades)
Dharmendra’s journey is often seen as a story of hard work. When he started his career he faced many difficulties and later he decided to try his luck in acting which made him a Bollywood icon.
he-man story
Dharmendra is popularly called the “He-Man” of Bollywood due to his strong screen presence and powerful action roles during the 1960s and 1970s. At a time when Hindi cinema mostly focused on romance and drama, Dharmendra stood out with his impressive physique, athletic build and ability to perform difficult action sequences with ease.
Films like Phool Aur Patthar, Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and Dharam Veer helped establish his image as a fearless, strong and heroic individual. His roles often featured him fighting villains, protecting others, and standing up for justice.
Over the years, this consistent action-hero portrayal earned him the enduring nickname “He-Man”, a nickname that fans use with great respect.