Actor Satyajeet Puri Remembers Dharmendra’s Bold Stance Against the Underworld

Actor-director Satyajeet Puri recently shared an intriguing incident regarding the legendary actor Dharmendra. He highlighted Dharmendra’s boldness when he faced the underworld at a time when its influence was strong in Bollywood.

Satyajeet admires Dharmendra’s bravery

In a recent discussion with Friday Talkies, Puri recounted how the underworld’s reach instilled fear in many actors at the time. “Dharamji and his family were never intimidated,” he stated. “He would warn them, ‘If you come, the whole Sahnewal will come from Punjab. You have 10 people, but I have an army. One call, and trucks will arrive to confront you. Don’t even try.'” His courage clearly left an impression, as the threats ceased.

Satyajeet Puri, who is the son of veteran actor Satyen Puri, launched his career in the industry as a child artist and has engaged in diverse roles over the years. He has not only displayed his acting chops but has also dabbled in directing and producing. Together with Dharmendra, Puri has been part of numerous significant films, including classics like Rajput (1982) and Betaab (1983).

The future of Dharmendra’s career

At 89, Dharmendra was last seen in Amit Joshi’s romantic comedy Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, alongside notable actors such as Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. He also marked his comeback in Karan Johar’s romantic drama, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, featuring Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh.

Looking ahead, Dharmendra is set to collaborate with acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan once more on the much-anticipated war biopic Ikkis, scheduled for release in December 2025. This film narrates the inspiring story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who gave his life during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.