Dharmendra Biopic: The legend wanted THIS superstar to step into his shoes, not his sons Sunny Deol or Bobby Deol!

Bollywood is grieving. On 24 November 2025, Dharmendra, the beloved “He-Man” of Indian cinema, passed away at 89, just 14 days before his 90th birthday. His loss marks the end of an era whose impact is impossible to measure. With a career spanning more than six decades, over 300 films, and a legacy of unforgettable roles, Dharmendra’s stardom and contribution to Indian cinema are not just monumental - they are biopic-worthy in every sense.

Must Read: Dharmendra: Bidding farewell to Bollywood’s He-Man - A journey through his most iconic roles

A Life Truly Worth a Biopic

It’s no surprise that the idea of a Dharmendra biopic often surfaced in conversations among fans and filmmakers. His journey - from a young boy in Punjab dreaming of movies to becoming one of India’s most adored stars - is the kind of cinematic arc that naturally sparks the imagination of storytellers. And when asked who should capture this extraordinary life on screen, Dharmendra had an unexpected, heartfelt answer.

The Superstar Dharmendra Wanted to Play Him

In earlier interviews, Dharmendra stunned fans by naming Salman Khan, not his sons Sunny or Bobby Deol, as the actor he believed could portray him best in a biopic.

He had once said, “Salman Khan. I think he has a lot of characteristics which are very similar to mine. I think he will be able to portray me onscreen perfectly.”

This wasn’t a passing comment. Dharmendra expressed this choice multiple times across the 2010s, emphasizing that biopics are about capturing a spirit, not just a physical resemblance. And in his eyes, Salman embodied the same rustic charm, emotional vulnerability, and mass appeal that defined Dharmendra’s iconic screen presence.

Why Not Sunny or Bobby?

While his sons share his features, Dharmendra believed that a biopic isn’t merely a family tribute - it’s a cinematic responsibility. He felt Salman carried an energy and persona closest to what audiences once saw in him: a balance of strength, mischief, tenderness, and raw starpower.

Trade analysts and old interviews had pointed out that a Dharmendra biopic would require an actor who could command the screen with both larger-than-life charisma and boyish innocence - traits that Dharmendra believed Salman naturally possessed.

Salman Khan’s Emotional Tribute Hits Even Harder

Now Dharmendra’s choice feels even more emotionally loaded after Salman Khan’s recent statement during his Da-Bang Tour. On stage, a visibly moved Salman said, “He is my father, that's the end. I love that man and I just hope that he will come back.”

Now, in the light of Dharmendra’s passing, those words have taken on a heartbreaking resonance. Their bond - one of affection, respect, and almost familial love - makes Dharmendra’s biopic wish even more significant. It wasn’t merely a casting suggestion; it was a symbol of trust and deep personal connection.

Related Story: Salman Khan calls Dharmendra his ‘father’! Watch viral clips that prove their heartfelt bond

A Legend Whose Life Deserves the Big Screen

Dharmendra leaves behind a legacy that includes cinematic landmarks such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar, Satyakam, and Mera Gaon Mera Desh. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2012 and remained one of the few actors who could excel equally in action, drama, romance, and comedy. His humility, warmth, and unwavering kindness are qualities colleagues and fans remember most.

Today, as tributes pour in from across the world, the thought of a Dharmendra biopic feels not just appropriate, but necessary - a way to honour a man whose life was as cinematic as his films. Whether Salman Khan eventually brings that story to life remains to be seen, but the legend’s wish will forever remain part of his legacy.