Dara Singh Randhawa, born Deedar Singh Randhawa on 19 November 1928, was an iconic figure in India, known for his remarkable contributions as a professional wrestler, actor, director, and politician. Singh’s journey into the world of entertainment and sports began in 1952, marking the start of an illustrious career that spanned several decades.
Dara Singh Randhawa, born Deedar Singh Randhawa on 19 November 1928, into a Jat Sikh family, was the son of Surat Singh Randhawa and Balwant Kaur. His birthplace was the village of Dharmuchak in the Majha area of Punjab, India, during the time of British colonial rule.
Singh’s early life in Dharmuchak laid the foundation for an extraordinary journey. Despite modest beginnings, his indomitable spirit and passion for wrestling and acting propelled him to great heights.
Entering professional wrestling in 1952, Singh quickly rose to prominence with his formidable strength and charisma. His wrestling fame was complemented by a successful career in Hindi and Punjabi cinema, where he worked as an actor, director, producer, and writer.
Career of Dara Singh
Dara Singh Randhawa’s path to greatness began in 1947 when he moved to Singapore. There, he worked in a drum-manufacturing mill and began his wrestling training under the guidance of Harnam Singh at the Great World Stadium.
As an adult, Singh stood 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m) tall, weighed 127 kilograms (280 lb), and had a chest measurement of 53 inches (130 cm). His impressive physique led him to take up pehlwani, an Indian style of wrestling, which he trained in for several years.
Transitioning to professional wrestling, Singh competed internationally against notable opponents such as Bill Verna, Firpo Zbyszko, John Da Silva, Rikidōzan, Danny Lynch, and Ski Hi Lee. His memorable victory over King Kong remains a highlight of his wrestling career.
In 1951, Singh faced a setback when he lost a Greco-Roman style match against Brahmdev Mishra of Gorakhpur in a stadium at Dahrmtalla Maidan, Calcutta. However, this defeat did not deter him. In 1954, Singh won the Rustam-e-Hind (Champion of India) tournament by defeating Tiger Joginder Singh, receiving a silver cup from Maharaja Hari Singh.
Singh’s wrestling prowess continued to grow, and in 1959, he won the Commonwealth Championship by defeating George Gordienko in Calcutta. His crowning achievement came on 29 May 1968 in Bombay, where he defeated Lou Thesz to claim the World Championship.
This praised Singh, calling him “an authentic wrestler” who was “superbly conditioned” and had no reservations about losing to him.
Entry into Movies
Dara Singh Randhawa left his village for Singapore in 1948. There, he began his wrestling training and laid the foundation for an illustrious career. In 1952, Singh transitioned into acting, starting with the film Sangdil.
He spent many years as a stunt actor before landing his first lead role in Babubhai Mistry’s film King Kong (1962).
From around 1963, Singh frequently partnered with actress Mumtaz, and together they starred in 16 Hindi films. The duo became the highest-paid B-grade actors, with Singh earning nearly four lakh rupees per film. His screen presence and athleticism made him a popular action star of his time.
In the late 1980s, Singh made a significant impact on Indian television by playing the role of Hanuman in the adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayan. This role further solidified his status as a beloved figure in Indian entertainment.
Dara Singh also appeared in numerous films such as Veer Bheem Sen and Ramayan, and starred as Bhima and Balram in various adaptations of the Mahabharata, as well as portraying Shiva in several theological movies.
Singh’s filmography extends to his later years, with his last Hindi movie being Jab We Met and his last Punjabi movie before his illness being Dil Apna Punjabi. He also featured in the National Award-winning film Main Maa Punjab Dee, directed by Balwant Singh Dullat.
As a director, Singh helmed seven Punjabi films including Sawa Lakh Se Ek Ladaun, Nanak Dukhiya Sub Sansar, Dhyanu Bhagat, and Rab Dian Rakhan. He directed two Hindi films, Bhakti Mein Shakti and Rustom (1982), under his production banner “Dara Film” which he established in 1970. Additionally, Singh portrayed himself in the 1985 Malayalam film Mutharamkunnu P.O..
Dara Singh Randhawa’s legacy as a wrestler, actor, and director continues to inspire. His journey from a small village in Punjab to the heights of wrestling and cinema is a testament to his multifaceted talent and enduring appeal.
Last Days of Dara singh
On 7 July 2012, Dara Singh Randhawa was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital following a massive heart attack. Despite medical efforts, it was confirmed two days later that he had suffered significant brain damage due to a lack of blood flow. Given the severity of his condition and the inability to prolong his life, Singh was discharged from the hospital on 11 July 2012.
Tragically, Dara Singh passed away the following day at his home in Mumbai. His passing marked the end of an era for millions of fans who had admired his prowess in wrestling and his charismatic presence on screen.
Singh was cremated at Juhu crematorium, where family, friends, and fans gathered to pay their last respects. His death was a significant loss to the world of sports and entertainment, but his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations.