Veteran Bollywood actor Johnny Lever recently shared his admiration for the legendary Dharmendra, whom he describes as “daring” and “down-to-earth.” Lever, known for his comedic prowess, reminisced about his encounters with the iconic star in a recent interview, highlighting Dharmendra’s authenticity both on and off-screen.
“Dharam paji is very daring,” Lever exclaimed, his eyes twinkling with nostalgia. “He’s the same in real life as he is on screen—fearless and genuine. He doesn’t shy away from anyone. He’s a truly good-hearted and humble individual.”
Recalling a particular incident, Lever chuckled as he recounted how Dharmendra effortlessly asserted his identity to a doubtful stranger in an elevator. “Someone once questioned whether he was really Dharmendra. Without hesitation, Dharam paji simply gave him a stare and said, ‘Believe it now?’ before walking away. That’s just who he is—firm and fearless.”
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The conversation shifted to Dharmendra’s contemporaries, including the late Vinod Khanna, known for their bold personas. Lever fondly remembered their fearlessness, which sometimes led to legal entanglements. “They were true daredevils, unafraid to speak their minds,” Lever remarked. “But sometimes, their audacity landed them in trouble. It’s all part of growing older, I suppose, but it never ceases to entertain.”
Reflecting on his own experiences working alongside Dharmendra and other Bollywood luminaries, Lever expressed gratitude for the camaraderie and wisdom shared on set. “Working with Dharam paji and Govinda has been an absolute delight,” he said with a smile. “Their talent is matched only by their humility. It’s been a privilege to be part of this industry alongside such remarkable individuals.”
As Johnny Lever concluded the interview, his admiration for Dharmendra and his peers was palpable. Through his anecdotes and laughter, he painted a vivid picture of the Hindi film industry’s golden era—a time marked by talent, camaraderie, and, above all, authenticity.