FridayOL

The 1970s were a transformative decade for Indian cinema. While Amitabh Bachchan eventually became synonymous with the term 'superstar,' it's a fascinating piece of Bollywood history to know that he wasn't the undisputed king right from the start. Before Zanjeer propelled him to legendary status, another actor held the crown, captivating audiences and commanding box office success. Let's delve into the story of this often-overlooked icon, whose star shone brightly before Bachchan's reign began.

Many remember the 70s as the era of Amitabh Bachchan, and rightfully so. His angry young man persona resonated deeply with a nation grappling with social and economic challenges. Films like Deewar, Sholay, and Amar Akbar Anthony cemented his place in cinematic history. However, rewind the clock a bit, and you'll find a different name dominating the silver screen – Dharmendra.

Dharmendra's appeal was undeniable. He possessed a unique blend of rugged charm, effortless charisma, and a surprising vulnerability. He wasn't just an action hero; he was a relatable everyman who could effortlessly transition between intense action sequences and heartwarming romantic moments. This versatility made him a favorite among audiences of all ages and demographics.

Consider the box office records of the early to mid-70s. Films like Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971), although not a massive commercial success initially, showcased Dharmendra’s willingness to experiment with different roles. But it was the string of hits that followed – Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), Johnny Mera Naam (1973), Chupke Chupke (1975), and Sholay (1975) – that truly established his supremacy. Seeta Aur Geeta, with its dual role for Hema Malini, and Dharmendra's supporting performance, was a phenomenal success, breaking box office records and solidifying his position as a leading man. Johnny Mera Naam further showcased his action prowess and cemented his appeal to the masses. Chupke Chupke, a delightful comedy, demonstrated his comedic timing and broadened his audience base. And of course, Sholay, arguably the greatest Indian film of all time, ensured his place in cinematic legend, although it solidified Bachchan's stardom as well.

While Rajesh Khanna, the 'original superstar,' enjoyed immense popularity in the early 70s, his dominance began to wane as the decade progressed. Khanna’s charm and style were undeniable, but he struggled to adapt to the changing tastes of the audience, particularly the rise of the angry young man archetype. Dharmendra, on the other hand, embraced this shift, delivering performances that resonated with the prevailing mood of the nation.

It's important to acknowledge that the concept of 'superstar' is subjective and evolves over time. However, based on box office performance, fan following, and overall cultural impact, Dharmendra held a significant edge over Amitabh Bachchan in the early to mid-70s. He was the undisputed king, the heartthrob of the nation, and the actor who defined the era before Bachchan's meteoric rise. He laid the groundwork for the later success of Bachchan, and his contributions to Bollywood deserve greater recognition. So, next time you think of the 70s, remember Dharmendra – the actor who reigned supreme before the era of Bachchan mania truly began.