How Dharmendra's First NEGATIVE Role In Ayee Milan Ki Bela Changed The Game For Bollywood's 'He-Man'

Dharmendra,

who died at the age of 89 on Novermber 24, has left a legacy of being the epitome of what Bollywood describes as the true "hero." Though the veteran actor marked his name for his immense good looks and screen-stealing personality, he did not stick to just action and even went on to rule the romance and comedy genres too. However, in one rare instance, Dharmendra broke his image and even turned villain for a movie which has now become a gem in Indian cinema. The movie is Ayee Milan Ki Bela which released in 1964.

Dharmendra's first negative role

Dharmendra did Ayee Milan Ki Bela early in his career. Infact, he broke the mould right in his fourth year of career, post making his big screen debut with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960. Ayee Milan Ki Bela was the actor's first negative role, and his convincing performance continues to remain memorable. Infact, the movie went on to become a mammoth success.

Ayee Milan Ki Bela broke the mould for Dharmendra

Dharmendra was already eight films old when he signed Ayee Milan Ki Bela. He was still trying to find a ground in Bollywood despite being part of some decent hits like Shola Aur Shabnam (1961), Anpadh (1962) and Bandini (1963). To say that he found his first brush with mega stardom with Ayee Milan Ki Bela won't be wrong.Written by Sachin Bhowmick, directed by Mohan Kumar and produced by J. Om Prakash, Ayee Milan Ki Bela also starred Rajendra Kumar, Saira Banu, and Shashikala.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69nr52oCTgU

About Ayee Milan Ki Bela

Ayee Milan Ki Bela follows twin brothers, Shyam and Ranjeet, who get separated at birth. Shyam grows up in a village, while Ranjeet is raised in a wealthy household. They both fall in love with the same woman, Barkha, which causes a major rift between them. What follows is jealousy, accusations and attempt to ruin Shyam's reputation. Dharmendra plays the role of Ranjeet, the rich brat.ALSO READ: When Dharmendra Left Shah Rukh Khan In Awe, Dilip Kumar Yearning For His 'Beauty' During Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award WinAyee Milan Ki Bela went on to become a huge hit, catapulting Dharmendra to super stardom. Its music by Shankar Jaikishan is still a classic, with songs like Tumko Hamari Umar Lag Jaye and Aa Ha Ayee Milan Ki Bela. The film was later remade in Tamil as Oru Thaai Makkal (1971).