ICONIC actor Dharmendra’s passing away has cast gloom on his fandom in Nagpur with people reminiscing his short visits to the Orange City with a heavy heart. In one of his visits to the city as a chief guest for a wrestling competition, the He-Man had won hearts with his macho personality and charming smile. The year was 1996 and Dharmendra had arrived to present title prize at the Maharashtra Kesari wrestling championship in Katol on the invitation of then Maharashtra Sports Minister Anil Deshmukh. Already a towering figure in Indian cinema by the mid-90s, Dharmendra’s visit had electrified the atmosphere in anticipation of his arrival. City’s media fraternity, who covered that event, still recall their most memorable celebrity interaction when Dharmendra held a press conference on January 6, 1996 at Deshmukh’s residence.

 

Dharmendra’s aura filled the space even before the formal briefing began. Reporters, photographers and invitees crowded every corner. They were eager not just for quotes or photographs but for the chance to be in the presence of a superstar as he carried a rare mix of strength, humility and charm. For many, Dharmendra was not merely an actor -- he was an emotion and a symbol of cinema’s golden years and a living legend whose mere entry could stir applause. As he prepared to address the gathering, an unexpected moment shifted the tone from professional to deeply personal. An enthusiastic journalist called out, “Hamare paas bhi Dharmendra hai!” The comment drew Dharmendra’s attention and prompted him to inquire with gentle curiosity.

 

The reporters then pointed towards a young journalist in the crowd, Dharmendra Jore, who shared the superstar’s name. “The iconic star invited me from amidst the tightly packed gathering, greeted with genuine affection and asked about the story behind his name. He responded with visible delight upon learning that a mother had named her son after him despite a friendly disagreement at home. He asked that his heartfelt thanks be conveyed to her - a gesture that reflected the deep respect he held for his fans,” recalled Jore, ex-senior journalist and currently working as Head (Communication), National Cancer Institute, Nagpur.

 

The incident left a lasting impression on everyone present. It revealed Dharmendra’s down to earth nature and the emotional connection he nurtured with the public. He managed to create a moment in a room filled with media professionals that become a cherished memory for all who witnessed it. “That day’s press conference is remembered not just for the statements made or the event he was there to promote, but for the magic that Dharmendra carried with him. His presence reaffirmed why he enjoyed unmatched popularity and why generations regarded him not only as Indian cinema’s iconic He-Man, but also as a man of remarkable humanity,” Jore added. Dharmendra was back again in the city in January 2000 on Deshmukh’s insistence. This time he had come to inaugurate All India Kabaddi tournament organised by Maratha Lancers at Katol.