Veteran actor Dharmendra reportedly issued a fearless warning to the underworld, telling gangsters he had "truck-loads" of people from Punjab ready to fight them. Actor-director Satyajeet Puri recently shared this anecdote, highlighting Dharmendra's legendary courage during a time when the underworld held significant sway over Bollywood. Puri recounted the incident in an interview with Friday Talkies, revealing how the "He-Man of Bollywood" stood his ground against threats^[1][2][3]. ### Actor's Defiance Recalled Satyajeet Puri detailed the specific challenge Dharmendra made to the criminal elements. Puri stated that the underworld was very strong at the time, and many actors felt scared when contacted by them^[1][3]. However, Dharmendra and his family were never intimidated^[1][2][4]. Dharmendra reportedly told the gangsters, "If you come, the whole Sahnewal will come from Punjab. You have 10 people, but I have an army. If I say so, people by the truck-loads will arrive from Punjab to fight with me. Don't mess with me"^{[1][5][2][3][4]}. Puri emphasized that following this audacious warning, the underworld reportedly "never messed with Dharmendra" again^[1][2][4]. This account underscores a period in Indian cinema history when figures from organized crime sometimes attempted to exert influence over film personalities. Dharmendra's bold response showcased a rare display of defiance in the face of such intimidation^[1][3][4]. ### Underworld's Past Influence During the era Puri described, the Mumbai underworld often attempted to control various aspects of the film industry, from financing movies to influencing casting decisions. Many actors, producers, and directors reportedly faced threats and intimidation tactics. This created a climate of fear, making Dharmendra's reported stand even more remarkable^[1][2][4]. His refusal to be cowed by these threats reinforced his public image as a strong and fearless individual, both on and off screen. Dharmendra, known for his powerful roles in action films, cultivated a persona of strength and integrity. His real-life bravery, as recounted by Puri, aligns with the "He-Man" image he earned through his cinematic career. Puri's revelations offer a glimpse into the veteran actor's character and his willingness to protect himself and his family^[1][2][3][4]. ### More Tales of Courage Satyajeet Puri also shared other instances of Dharmendra's courage. He recalled a time when a fan attacked Dharmendra with a knife, and the actor reportedly tackled the assailant within a minute, handling the situation himself^[3][4]. Puri noted that unlike today's actors who often move with large entourages and security, Dharmendra and other stars like Vinod Khanna walked freely during their time^[3][4]. Another anecdote involved Dharmendra saving both himself and a horse from a dangerous fall during the filming of "Ghulami." He insisted on performing a risky stunt himself where a horse had to climb marble stairs. When the horse slipped, Dharmendra used his physical strength to prevent injury to himself and the animal^[3]. These stories further solidify his reputation for daring and strength^[3][4]. ### Dharmendra's Enduring Legacy Now 89 years old, Dharmendra continues to work in films, maintaining an active presence in Bollywood. He was recently seen in the romantic comedy "Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya" and made a comeback with Karan Johar's "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani" in 2023^[1][2]. He is also set to appear in the upcoming war biopic "Ikkis" in 2025^[1][2]. His long career and numerous iconic roles, including "Sholay" (1975) and "Mera Gaon Mera Desh" (1971), have cemented his status as a legendary figure in Indian cinema^[1][2]. Puri's recent sharing of these anecdotes adds another layer to the enduring legend of Dharmendra's fearless spirit.