Writer, producer-director Veerendra, born “Subhash Dhadwal,” was one of the most popular actors in Punjabi cinema of his time. His looks resembled those of the legendary actor Dharmendra and were often mistaken for those of his brother “Ajit Singh Deol” or even a cousin of Dharam ji.
Early Life and Career
Veerendra, born Subhash Dhadwal, on January 29, 1948, in Phagwara, Kapurthala district, Punjab. He came from a Punjabi family. There are many reports of him being the cousin of Dharmendra and two being close. He started his career with Dharmendra’s Punjabi movie Teri Meri Ik Jindri (1975). The hit song ‘Teriyan Mohabbatan Ne Maar Sutta, Das Ki Karan’ sung by Narendra Biba was filmed on Veerendra.
Veerendra made 25 Punjabi-language films in his 12-year career, often taking on multiple roles as actor, director, producer, and writer. He starred in several hits that defined Punjabi cinema’s golden era.
Lambhardarni (1980) showcased his ability to portray intense rural characters, earning him widespread acclaim. The film, a drama about love and rivalry, became a commercial success. Balbiro Bhabhi (1981) highlighted his comedic talent, with Veerendra playing a charming lead opposite actress Daljeet Kaur. The movie’s lighthearted tone appealed to audiences, cementing his versatility.
Stardom
Batwara (1983) explored family conflicts over land, with Veerendra as a conflicted son, delivering a powerful performance. Yaari Jatt Di (1987) focused on friendship and loyalty, resonating with Punjabi viewers for its cultural themes. Jatt Te Zameen (1987) addressed agrarian struggles, with Veerendra as Balwant ‘Ballu,’ a role that showcased his action-hero persona. Patola (1988) and Jatt Soormay (1988) further solidified his status, both featuring him as Jeeta, a fearless protagonist. Dushmani Dee Agg (1990), released posthumously, depicted a tale of revenge, becoming a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Some of his other films include Laajo, Vari Jatt, Saida Jogan, Batwara, Balbiro Bhabi, Rano, Sarpanch, Santo-Banto, Sardara’ Kartara, Jigri Yar, Jatt Surme, Kuara Mama, Giddha, Takra, Dharamjit, Nimmo ‘etc.
Veerendra also ventured into Hindi cinema. He acted in films like Do Chehere (1977) and Khel Muqaddar Ka (1981), though these projects saw limited success. His frequent on-screen pairing with Daljeet Kaur delivered multiple hits, making them a popular duo. Veerendra’s contributions as a director and producer helped elevate Punjabi cinema’s production quality during his era.
Tragic Demise of Veerendra
Veerendra’s life ended tragically on December 6, 1988, in Talwandi Kalan, Ludhiana, Punjab. He was shot dead on the set of Jatt Te Zameen at the age of 40. The murder remains unsolved, with many speculating that jealousy over his dominance in Punjabi cinema played a role. His death shocked the industry, leaving a void that impacted Punjabi filmmaking for years. Several of his films, including Dushmani Dee Agg, released posthumously, keeping his legacy alive.
Personal Life
Veerendra married Pammi Varinder in the late 1970s. The couple maintained a private life despite his rising fame. They had three children: two sons, Randeep and Ramandeep Arya, and a daughter. Randeep pursued a career in entertainment, briefly acting before becoming a television producer.
He married actress Deepti Bhatnagar and is known for producing shows like Dullha Bhatti (1998), directed by Pammi. Ramandeep worked as an assistant director with filmmakers like Sanjay Gupta and Rajiv Rai. He also acted in films like Dharti (2011) and married actress Chandana Sharma.
Veerendra on IMDB
