I have always been unlucky with awards: Dharmendra

Veteran actor Dharmendra is one of the three awardees in the Cinema category to receive the Padma Bhushan.

The actor who recently completed fifty years in the film industry will soon get the country’s third highest civilian award. In a candid chat with DNA, Dharmendra shares his feelings on being chosen for the prestigious award.

Talking about the award, the actor says, “I’m happy for the recognition that I have got though I wasn’t expecting it as I have always been unlucky when it comes to awards, be it films or otherwise. It’s the Lifetime achievement awards that I have been receiving since the past few years (laughs). But I am happy about being bestowed with this honour even though it has come to me after completing 50 years in the industry. I just want to thank all my fans who have been gracious to love me for 50 long years and continue doing so. I  also feel grateful that our  government considered me worthy enough for this award.”

He continues, “In fact more than me, my fans that are more like family to me are happier after the names for this year’s awardees were declared. I have been continuously receiving calls from all over the world. At many places my fans have celebrated this by distributing sweets and bursting crackers. I agree that fewer awards have come by my way, but my fans have always made up for it and showered me with ample  blessings and love, which is the biggest award for me.”

Ask him if a party is in the offing and he adds, “Firstly we are not into partying, so a family dinner with all my kids and family is the Deol style of celebration.” So what next? “I want to do many films and  work actively. I want to do good movies that will entertain my fans. I am yet to finish my script that I am writing and may also direct. It’s going to be a comedy film with lots of emotions — a perfect family entertainer,” says Garam Dharam.