Salim Siddiqui Attributes His Acting Success to Dharmendra's Unmet Blessings
In a heartfelt revelation, Dhurandhar 2 actor Salim Siddiqui has opened up about the profound influence of legendary Bollywood star Dharmendra on his career, despite never having met the veteran actor in person. During a recent appearance on Divyank Kaushik's podcast, Siddiqui shared emotional anecdotes about admiration, personal loss, and the spiritual guidance he believes has shaped his journey in the film industry.
"I Never Met Him, But I Grew Up on His Films"
Siddiqui reflected on his early days, emphasizing how Dharmendra played a silent yet powerful role in his life. "If I have to give credit for my success to someone, there is one person whose blessings I feel have truly stayed with me," he stated. "I never met him, but I've been his biggest fan since childhood. I grew up watching his films."
The actor described how he initiated interactions through social media, writing to Dharmendra and receiving encouraging replies. "He would reply with blessings, saying, 'Live long, you will be very successful.' Those were his blessings. I truly loved him," Siddiqui recalled, his voice filled with emotion. "Last year, we lost him... and that absence will always remain."
He expressed regret over never having the chance to meet Dharmendra or share his journey with him directly. "If I had ever met him or written to him about my journey, I think he would have been very happy. I would have definitely given him credit for everything," Siddiqui added. "Maybe it's because of his blessings that I'm here today, speaking to all of you."
"That Loss Felt Personal"
Siddiqui admitted that Dharmendra's passing deeply affected him, comparing it to a personal bereavement. "When the news first came, it was shocking," he shared. "Even during that period when he seemed to recover, we kept hoping—'he'll come back, he'll be fine.' You try to console yourself like that."
He revealed his persistent efforts to meet Dharmendra, often requesting arrangements during his visits to Mumbai for shoots. "I always felt that one day, I would definitely meet him. But that meeting never happened," Siddiqui lamented. "Maybe it wasn't meant to be. Still, wherever he is today, I believe he's watching us and feeling happy."
"I Wanted Just One Introduction"
The actor disclosed how professional opportunities became intertwined with his personal dream of meeting Dharmendra. Siddiqui gave auditions for films featuring Sunny Deol, such as Chup, 1947 Lahore, and others, with a specific hope. "I thought if I get selected and reach him, I'll just make one request: 'Please introduce me to Dharam sir once.' That was the only wish," he explained.
"No One Like Him"
Remembering Dharmendra not just as a cinematic icon but as a person, Siddiqui praised his unmatched warmth and genuineness. "He was incredibly warm and genuine," he said. "You know how some celebrities are surrounded by security and distance—but he was never like that. He would call people close, make them sit next to him, hug them. That kind of warmth is very rare. There can never be another like him."
Siddiqui highlighted the universal praise Dharmendra received, noting, "Everyone I've ever heard has only praised him. I've never heard a single negative thing—no attitude, no ego. He had a completely clean heart."
"Sunny Sir Is Carrying the Legacy Forward"
Expressing admiration for Sunny Deol, Siddiqui sees him as a reflection of his father's legacy. "I feel very happy seeing Sunny sir's journey—Gadar and everything he's doing now. He is carrying forward that legacy beautifully," he remarked. "When I see him, I feel like I'm seeing Dharam sir in him."
He described the Deol family as emotional and real, adding, "Sometimes emotional decisions can cost you practically—but that's also what makes them so pure-hearted. That's their legacy."
From 'Dead Body Role' to Dreams of Working with Sunny Deol
Sharing a lighter anecdote, Siddiqui recalled an early audition that showcased his determination. "When I was new in the industry, I got a call for a role in Chup. I asked what the role was, and they said, 'No audition needed, just send your photo.' Then they told me—it's the role of a dead body!" he laughed.
"But they also said it's with Sunny sir. The moment I heard that, I said, 'Done! I'll play a dead body, no problem—but just make sure it's with Sunny sir.'"
"I Just Hope I Make Him Proud"
For Siddiqui, his journey now carries a deeper emotional responsibility. "It was a kind of loss I can compare only to losing my father during Covid. It didn't feel any less than that," he shared. "But his memories and blessings remain. I just pray that wherever he is, I make him proud. That is a responsibility I feel I must fulfil."
