After working with South Indian director A Bhimsingh in Khandaan, where he played a physically challenged person (and won a Filmfare Award for it), Dutt featured in the director's next Hindi venture, Meharbaan.

As Ashok Kumar’s foster son in this family drama, Dutt stands by him when the prosperous household sees hard times.

Playing the epitome of loyalty, Dutt relied on that rare ability to project honest sentiment.