In the glamorous world of Bollywood, Dharmendra, often celebrated as the “He-Man,” has always been an iconic figure, captivating audiences with his dashing looks and charismatic presence. However, long before his marriage to the Dream Girl, Hema Malini, there was another actress who held a special place in Dharmendra’s heart—Suraiya. The actor himself admitted to having watched one of her films, Dillagi, an astonishing 40 times, driven by a deep admiration for her artistry.
Dharmendra’s revelation of his affection for Suraiya shines a light on the profound impact she had on him and his journey into the world of cinema. His admiration was not merely a fleeting crush but an overwhelming enchantment that saw him tirelessly journey from place to place to view her performances. Suraiya’s profound influence was rooted in her unmatched on-screen charisma and enduring elegance.
Born in June 1929 in Punjab, Suraiya’s career was illustrious, with noteworthy collaborations, including her revered pairings with Dev Anand. Not only did she grace the silver screen with her exceptional acting skills, but she also lent her melodious voice as a playback singer, contributing to over 70 films and 338 songs. Her legacy is punctuated by her choice to remain unmarried, despite a prominent relationship with Dev Anand, which lasted from 1948 to 1951.
Suraiya remained a cherished figure in Indian cinema history until her retirement in 1963 and continued to be celebrated posthumously after her passing in January 2004. Her death left a void felt by many, including a devoted Dharmendra, who reportedly attended her funeral, honoring the actress whose work had a profound effect on his love for films.
The enduring admiration Dharmendra held for Suraiya underscores her significance, not only in shaping his early years but also in eternalizing her status as a legendary figure in the history of Indian cinema. As he reminisces about his formative experiences with her films, the legacy of their impact on him continues to be celebrated, reflecting the timeless allure of true cinematic artistry.
