Mumbai, August 13, 2026 (Yes Punjab News) Bollywood actor Aamir Khan recently recalled his first meeting with legendary actor Dharmendra, sharing a humorous anecdote about the veteran star’s imposing physical presence and their first handshake.
Aamir narrated the incident during his appearance on the quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18, where he appeared on the hot seat alongside Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta.
Recollecting his early days as an assistant director, Aamir said he first met Dharmendra at filmmaker Nasir Hussain’s office, located opposite Mumbai’s Mehboob Studio. Dharmendra was close to Hussain and had worked with him in Yaadon Ki Baaraat, which led to actors frequently visiting the filmmaker’s office.
Aamir recalled that Dharmendra unexpectedly walked into the office one day. As an assistant, he immediately stood up, following which Hussain introduced him to the veteran actor as his nephew.
Describing their handshake, Aamir said Dharmendra’s hand felt “like a shovel” and that he was momentarily intimidated by its size and roughness.
“I actually got scared. Whose hand is this big? And it was so rough. I swear, my first thought was about Sunny and Bobby,” Aamir recalled, referring to Dharmendra’s sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol.
Dharmendra’s imposing physique and screen presence, combined with his popularity and looks, earned him the enduring title of the “He-Man” of Bollywood.
Dharmendra died in Mumbai on November 24, 2025, aged 89. His career spanned more than six decades, during which he appeared in more than 300 films and became one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated stars.
After making his acting debut in 1960, he went on to feature in acclaimed and commercially successful films including Phool Aur Patthar, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Satyakam, Chupke Chupke, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and Sholay.
In his later years, Dharmendra appeared in films including Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya and Ikkis.
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