Can you recognise the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, Dharmendra, in this school photo?

Dharmendra, the man who defined the “He-Man” of Bollywood, may no longer be with us, but his legacy and influence will live on forever. The actor, who captured hearts with his larger-than-life presence on screen, was more than just a film star. His roots trace back to Phagwara, a small town where he spent his early years, and even as a schoolboy, his charm and elegance were unmistakable.

The never-before-seen pictures of the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood

A rare school photo and some other pictures, shared exclusively with India(BHARAT).com by an old batchmate’s family, have brought back a flood of memories. In the image, a young Dharmendra stands proudly in the second row, radiating the same natural charm that would later make him a household name.

This picture from the year 1949-50, from class Xth, is a beautiful reminder of the man Dharmendra was before he became superstar, and it showcases the elegance and charisma that he seemed to carry effortlessly throughout his life.

Mr. Duggal’s family shares old pics with late superstar Dharmendra

The picture of Dharmendra from his school days

The iconic picture shared exclusively with India(BHARAT).com offers a rare glimpse into Dharmendra’s days at Arya High School in Phagwara. The photograph, taken years ago, features a much younger version of the actor, yet his dignified presence is already visible. Standing in the top line, second from the left, the young Dharmendra exudes confidence and grace, making it clear that he was destined for greatness long before he made his mark in Bollywood.

Mr. Duggal’s family shares old pics with late superstar Dharmendra

The images, shared by the family of Sushma Behl, brings forth a connection to Dharmendra’s childhood. Sushma Behl shared, “My bhabhi, Sarika’s father, Mr. Duggal, was Dharmendra’s childhood best friend, as their family was close to Dharmendra.” This connection to his early years adds a personal touch to the photo, as it takes us back to a time when Dharmendra was just a regular student, unaware of the fame and stardom that awaited him.

Mr. Duggal’s family shares old pics with late superstar Dharmendra

The legendary frame

Additionally, other pictures from this collection show Dharmendra with Mr. Duggal’s family, his childhood best friend, and in one legendary frame, he is seen with veteran Bollywood star Shatrughan Sinha. This rare photograph, with the iconic duo, adds even more significance to the collection, giving a sense of how Dharmendra’s relationships with his peers and family were always a central part of his life, both on and off-screen.

Mr. Duggal’s family shares old pics with late superstar Dharmendra

More about Dharmendra

Dharmendra, passed away on 24 November 2025 at 89 after a prolonged illness, his cremation in Mumbai on 25 November attended by close family and a handful of industry friends, with his grandson collecting the ashes. The news hit fans like a personal loss, social media flooded with tributes, stories of how his films had shaped generations, and memories of his effortless charisma and humility.