Who Is Dara Singh? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on November 19, 1928, in village Dharmuchak, Punjab, India, Dara Singh is remembered as a pioneering figure in Indian professional wrestling and cinema. Although he passed away on July 12, 2012, his larger-than-life persona continues to influence many in the realms of sports and entertainment. As of 2025, Dara Singh would have been 97 years old, a testament to his enduring legacy.
| Occupation | Film Producer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 19, 1928 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | Dharmuchak, Amritsar District, Punjab, British India (present-day Punjab, India) |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 12 July, 2012 |
| Died Place | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
Popularity
Dara Singh's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Dara Singh was not only an iconic wrestler but also an imposing figure in terms of stature. He stood at approx 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall and weighed around 250 lbs (113 kg) during his wrestling career. His impressive physique contributed to his success in both wrestling and acting, making him a recognizable name across India and beyond.
He came to Singapore in 1947, where he worked in a drum-manufacturing mill and began his wrestling training under Harnam Singh in the Great World Stadium. As an adult he was 6 ft tall, weighed 127 kg and had a chest measurement of 53 in.
Due to his physique, he was encouraged to take up pehlwani, a traditional Indian style of wrestling, in which he trained for several years. After switching to professional wrestling, he competed around the world with opponents such as Bill Verna, Firpo Zbyszko, John Da Silva, Rikidōzan, Danny Lynch and Ski Hi Lee.
His flooring of King Kong is still remembered. He is credited to have remained undefeated in a professional wrestling bout.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Dara Singh was married to his loving wife, Nadira, and together they had several children, including popular actors Vindu Dara Singh and Shahnaaz Singh. His family was deeply intertwined with the entertainment industry, ensuring that his legacy continues through his offspring. While other details concerning his relationships before or outside of marriage might have sparked curiosity, Dara Singh's commitment to family and public persona maintained the focus on his professional journey.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death in 2012, Dara Singh's net worth was estimated to be between $10 million to $20 million. This wealth was accumulated through his successful wrestling career, acting roles in films and television, along with various endorsements and public appearances. It is not uncommon for pioneers like Dara Singh to amass considerable wealth through diverse ventures, including wrestling, acting, and even politics.
Career, Business and Investments
Dara Singh first gained fame as a wrestler in the 1950s, becoming a champion in many wrestling competitions both in India and internationally. His charisma and athletic prowess led to a flourishing acting career in Bollywood, where he starred in numerous films, often portraying heroic characters. Not limited to wrestling and acting, he also ventured into politics and entertained charitable endeavors, investing in ventures that benefitted his community.
His appearances in classic television series like "Ramayana" as Hanuman further solidified his status as a beloved figure. Additionally, Dara Singh's business acumen enabled him to explore various investments, creating a well-rounded persona that inspired upcoming generations.
Singh left his village for Singapore in 1948. He started his career as an actor in 1952 with Sangdil. He was a stunt film actor for many years and played his first lead role in Babubhai Mistry's film King Kong (1962). From around 1963, he partnered often with Mumtaz, with whom he performed in 16 Hindi films.
The couple became the highest-paid B-grade actors, with Singh receiving nearly four lakh rupees per film.
Social Network
Though Dara Singh is no longer with us, his legacy thrives on social media platforms. Fans continue to share memories, quotes, and tributes on sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. As a figure who galvanized a fan base during his lifetime, his family maintains active online engagement, keeping his spirit alive in the hearts of many.
Education
Dara Singh's formal education was not extensively documented, as his early life was predominantly focused on wrestling training. However, it is clear that he possessed a vigorous spirit and an ambition that surpassed typical academic pursuits. His dedication to physical fitness and entertainment underscored a self-taught education in wrestling and performance arts.
Dara Singh Randhawa (born Deedar Singh Randhawa; 19 November 1928 – 12 July 2012) was an Indian professional wrestler, actor, director and politician. He started acting in 1952 and was the first sportsman to be nominated to the Rajya Sabha (upper house) of India.
He worked as Hindi and Punjabi film producer, director and writer, and he acted in films and television. His role of Hanuman in the film Bajrangbali (1976) and in Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan made him popular. Singh was inducted into the Legacy wing of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2018.
Conclusion
Dara Singh remains a figure of admiration and inspiration in the realms of wrestling and acting, having carved a path for many who followed in his footsteps. Even in 2025, his legacy lives on, resonating through his contributions to sports and entertainment. From his stellar physique to his substantial net worth, everything about Dara Singh encapsulates a life defined by passion, dedication, and an undying impact on the Indian cultural landscape.
