Dharmendra’s Lifelong Debt — A Promise That Could Never Be Fulfilled

By Sharad Rai

Today’s generation might not know that fifty–sixty years ago, the struggle to get work in films was almost the same as it is today. We are talking about the early struggling days of Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar.

Back then, a popular meeting point for film strugglers used to be Ranjeet Studio, located in Dadar East (Mumbai). In those days, the film industry was centred around the areas of Dadar, Parel, and Matunga. Next to Ranjeet Studio stood Shri Sound Studio, and a little further away, in Parel, was V. Shantaram’s Rajkamal Studio.

Across the same stretch, in the opposite direction, were R.K. Studio, Asha Studio, and Essel Studio in the Chembur area. In Dadar West were the film laboratories. A bit ahead was Ramnord Lab and, farther away at Grant Road, Jyoti Studio.

There was also the air-conditioned market building where offices of many filmmakers were located, and the Naz Building, where film distributors had their offices. It was from here that trade magazines Trade Guide and Complete Cinema first began publication. Many film artists lived in the Dadar–Parel belt because it was a central location. Naturally, for film strugglers, Ranjeet Studio became a major hub. The office of the Film Writers’ Association too was also inside Ranjeet Studio, along with several film offices.

Now, let’s come to the story of a debt connected to Dharmendra—an unpaid bill from a small restaurant right opposite the gate of Ranjeet Studio. Film people often had their lunch here. Manoj Kumar, Dharmendra, C.S. Dubey, Kanhaiya Lal, Leela Mishra, Bhagwan Dada, and many others were frequently seen at this place. Writer-director B.R. Ishara used to work in the adjacent canteen of Shri Sound Studio, washing utensils. This same B.R. Ishara later went on to give many actors their first break in films.

The story of the unpaid food bill of Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar from this restaurant is well-known among old-timers.
In those days, Dharmendra lived in Matunga. One day, after wandering around Ranjeet Studio, Manoj Kumar reached Dharmendra’s rented room and learned that, disappointed by not getting any work, Dharmendra was preparing to return to his village. Dharmendra said, “What will I do staying here? I’ll go back and take up a job operating a tube-well.” Manoj insisted he stay a little longer. “Wait for a few more days. A producer has called me tomorrow. You come along—something might work out.”

Fate had its own plans. Manoj Kumar could not make it to the meeting the next day, but Dharmendra went—and got selected for the film! His departure was postponed, and in the joy of getting his first break, Dharmendra had to treat Pandit ji (Manoj Kumar) to a meal.
That meal, however, was eaten on credit—and the bill remains unpaid to this day.

The restaurant owner was very fond of Dharmendra and used to say, “You will definitely become someone one day.”
Dharmendra eventually got the film. He moved out of Matunga and visited Ranjeet Studio many times. He met the canteen owner and even tried to repay the money. But the owner would not take it. He would simply say, “It makes me happy that you used to eat at my place. I will tell my children about this.”

Time passed. Dharmendra’s stardom rose rapidly. Manoj Kumar became not only a big star but also a producer-director. Dharmendra wanted to do something for that restaurant owner, but by then the man had sold his shop and moved away. After that, the restaurant changed hands several times. Whoever ran the place proudly narrated this story to others.

The whereabouts of that man were never found—the man to whom Dharmendra remained indebted for life. And now, that debt will never be repaid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When was Dharmendra's prayer meet held?

A. A few days after Dharmendra's death, a prayer meeting was organised by his family in Mumbai.

Q2. Who attended the prayer meet?

A. All the members of the Deol family—Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Abhay Deol—along with many big personalities from the film industry came to pay tribute.

Q3. What was the atmosphere like at the prayer meeting?

A. The atmosphere was emotional and quiet. Everyone paid tribute to Dharmendra by recalling their memories with him.

Q4. Was the media allowed at the prayer meet?

A. Yes, but limited coverage was allowed so that the family's privacy was maintained.

Q5. What did the family say in Dharmendra's honor?

A. The family said that Dharmendra will always remain alive in everyone's hearts and his legacy will be remembered for centuries.

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