Poonam Dhillon: Early Glory and Career Milestones
Poonam Dhillon, an Indian actress with a storied career, made her impressive debut in Bollywood at the tender age of 16. This article delves into her memorable experience working alongside the legendary Amitabh Bachchan in the groundbreaking film Trishul in 1978. Through Poonam's candid recollections, we gain insight into the making of a legend in the Indian film industry.
The Birth of a Star
In 1978, at the ripe age of 16, Poonam Dhillon made her debut shot in the film Trishul, co-starring alongside the iconic actor Amitabh Bachchan. B. R. Chopra's Trishul was a blockbuster of its time, alongside other luminaries like Shashi Kapoor, Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, and Raakhee, and was noted for its impact on the hindi film industry. The film's success can be attributed to its star-studded cast, including the much awaited debut of Poonam Dhillon, who played the role of Kusum, daughter of Sanjeev Kumar.
As her first on-screen experience with such a prominent figure, Poonam describes a surreal moment where she indeed felt like a mere prop rather than a significant actress. Director Yash Chopra and even other actors did not recognize her as someone experiencing the thrill of her first shoot, which was a day filled with nerves and excitement.
First-Time Experience
Details of her first scene with Amitabh Bachchan reveal a fascinating undercurrent of emotion. Poonam had to be carried in his arms during a distressing scene, which was not just a physical action but also a metaphor for her immaturity and inexperience. She recalls, 'No one realised that it was my first day and I was shooting with such a big star and such a good looking man was to pick me up in his arms. He was going about the shoot holding me in his arms. He was treating me like a prop.'
The scene was shot in Delhi, and a large crowd had gathered to catch a glimpse of the film's stars. The incident illustrates a poignant moment of both celebration and worry. It also underscores the high stakes and the pressure of acting with such distinguished and established actors.
Early Career and Notable Films
Although Poonam Dhillon shared the screen with Amitabh Bachchan in only two films, Trishul and Gereftar, these moments remain critically important in her filmography. An actor's career is often nourished by such experiences, and Poonam's journey diverged into a path of hard work and dedication.
Further, she gained significant recognition for her role as the lead heroine in Yash Chopra's film Noorie, which premiered in 1979. Opposite Farooq Sheikh, the film garnered immense popularity. Kayyam's music contributions enhanced the film's appeal, and Poonam was even nominated for the prestigious Filmfare Best Actress Award.
From 1978 to 1990, Poonam acted in around 90 Bollywood films, playing alongside the likes of Rajesh Khanna in films such as Dard Namak Zamana, Swam Red Rose, and Maalamaal. Her career was a blend of success and versatility, marked by memorable roles and collaborations with prominent figures of the industry.
Poonam's Personal Life and Later Career
Personal milestones such as marriage and divorce are carved into the fabric of a star's life. Poonam Dhillon married Ashok Thakrria in 1988 and later divorced in 1997, leaving behind a daughter, Paloma, and a son, Anmol.
In 2023, Poonam's daughter, Paloma Dhillon, entered the film industry, starring in Dono, alongside Rajveer Deol, son of Sunny Deol. Although the film did not achieve great popularity, it marked an important transition.
Considering her daughter's entry into the film industry, Poonam Dhillon shared her thoughts on nepotism in the industry. She highlighted the importance of genuine talent and hard work, refuting the notion that nepotism is the sole factor in career success. To illustrate this, Poonam mentioned that they audited her daughter Paloma multiple times before she was finally chosen to star in the film, noting the rigorous process involved.
Currently in her sixties, Poonam Dhillon remains a respected figure in Bollywood. Her career reflects a journey marked by early stardom, mid-career depth, and a personal life filled with milestones. At the time of this writing, she made a small but notable appearance as a supporting actress in the Netflix film Plan A Plan B, demonstrating her enduring presence in the industry.
In conclusion, Poonam Dhillon's debut with Amitabh Bachchan in Trishul was not just a beginning; it was a testament to the dedication and ambition that defined her journey. Her career and personal life illustrate the challenges and opportunities faced by actors in the competitive world of Indian cinema.