Remembering Dharmendra: How a Love for Puran Poli Revealed the Bollywood Legend's Extraordinary Humility

Dharmendra died on Monday, November 24, at his Mumbai home

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

In Maharashtra's heartland, where the golden crust of 'puran poli' carries home's fragrance and tradition, memories of Dharmendra remain - rich and timeless, much like the beloved delicacy he cherished.

The iconic "He-Man of Bollywood," whose commanding screen presence matched his remarkable off-screen humility, had a particular fondness for this sweet, ghee-soaked traditional dish.

This very affection for 'puran poli' once became central to an unexpected political episode—a carefully orchestrated delay that revealed not only the actor's culinary preferences but also his gracious character when faced with challenging circumstances.

After Dharmendra's passing on Monday, Shrikant Joshi, a former MLC from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, shared on social media his recollection of being assigned to keep the actor, who was then serving as BJP MP from Bikaner, from departing the town prematurely.

It was a story of political strategy disguised as generous hospitality, with puran poli emerging as the day's unexpected hero.

What started as a morning featuring a breakfast spread of sabudana khichdi, poha, and aloo paratha evolved into a tale of laughter, photographs, and the irresistible appeal of puran poli—a dish that captured the actor's heart and conveniently extended his stay.

Dharmendra was scheduled to attend a prize distribution ceremony in Khamgaon, Buldhana district, approximately 200 km away, as the chief guest.

However, Pandurang Fundkar, then BJP state president, commonly known as Bhausaheb, had devised alternative arrangements. He instructed Joshi to delay Dharmendra's departure from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) until noon, ensuring the actor's arrival aligned perfectly with the event's timetable.

To assist Joshi in this unusual task, Fundkar enlisted Vasant Davkhare, then deputy chairperson of the legislative council. Together, they were entrusted with keeping Dharmendra engaged without arousing his suspicion about their orchestration.

When Joshi welcomed Dharmendra at the airport, he was immediately struck by the actor's impressive stature—handsome, robust, and exuding the charisma that had made him nationally beloved. At Joshi's residence, his wife Kiran had prepared an elaborate spread: sabudana khichdi, aloo paratha, poha, and bread omelette.

Dharmendra, demonstrating his characteristic graciousness, praised each dish. "Conversing with my family, my wife and two daughters, Dharmendra ji tirelessly complimented the dishes and their creator. It was nine o'clock when he completed his breakfast," Joshi recounted, with three hours still remaining to be filled.

It was then that Kiran suggested serving puran poli. Dharmendra's expression brightened noticeably. "Puran poli is my weak point. I will definitely eat it," the actor reportedly declared.

His words prompted immediate activity throughout the household. Plates of the sweet delicacy were quickly prepared, and Dharmendra savored them with evident delight.

The dish accomplished more than satisfying his appetite—it provided valuable additional time.

As the morning progressed, journalists arrived, eager for photographs. The actor accommodated without hesitation, posing with Joshi's family and others who had gathered. "Why not, we will definitely take photos with everyone," he remarked, exemplifying the humility that characterized him.

Eventually, Joshi revealed the truth that the extensive hospitality had been a deliberate strategy to delay his departure.

Dharmendra's response demonstrated not anger but profound wisdom. With a gentle smile, he stated, "When I stepped into politics, I understood that my life was no longer my personal life; it belonged to the common people. And you are also doing all this for the public, aren't you? So, how can I be angry with you people?"

For Joshi, this moment was transformative. He realized that true heroism resided not in cinematic grandeur but in humility, patience, and the capacity to value others.

"My perception of a hero in films was wrong. I realized that heroes are also very hardworking and value others," he added.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)