Following the passing of veteran actor Dharmendra on November 24, speculation arose about a potential rift within his family when his two families organized separate prayer meetings. The actor's first wife, Prakash Kaur, along with their children Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Ajeita Deol, and Vijeta Deol, held a prayer meet in Mumbai. This event was not attended by Dharmendra's second wife, Hema Malini, or her daughters.
Separate Gatherings Spark Speculation
In contrast, Hema Malini, the veteran actor and politician, along with her daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, organized three separate prayer meetings. These were held in Mumbai, Delhi, and Hema Malini's constituency, Mathura. The distinct events led to public conjecture about discord between the two families of the late Bollywood legend.
Addressing these rumours head-on, Hema Malini has now provided a clear explanation. Speaking to E Times, she dismissed the speculation, calling it a "ghar ka personal mamla" (a personal family matter). She emphasized that the families are in communication, stating, "We talked to each other."
"My Group of People Are Different": Hema Explains
Hema Malini clarified that the decision to hold separate gatherings was purely logistical, based on different social and professional circles. "The reason behind organising separate prayer meetings was because I have a different set of friends and well-wishers than Prakash Kaur’s family," she explained.
She elaborated on the rationale for her three events: one at her home for her close circle, one in Delhi for her political colleagues, and one in Mathura for her constituents who deeply admired Dharmendra. "Mathura is my constituency, and the people there are mad about him. So, I kept a prayer meeting there as well," she said, adding that she is content with her decision.
"We Are Good," Asserts Hema on Family Unity
Further quelling rumours of any discord, Hema Malini strongly asserted the families' harmony. When asked about the future, including plans for Dharmendra's Lonavala farmhouse possibly being turned into a museum by Sunny Deol, she said, "Everything is happening in a nice way."
She reassured the public that there is no cause for concern, stating, "No one needs to be concerned that these are two separate families, and what will happen in the future. Hum log ekdum achche hai. (We are absolutely fine)."
The actor also commented on an incident where Sunny Deol clashed with paparazzi when Dharmendra was hospitalized. She defended him, saying he was "emotional and angry" during a difficult time and cited excessive media harassment, noting, "Media was running behind our cars… harassment bahut hua."
This clarification from Hema Malini puts to rest the widespread rumours, highlighting that the separate observances were a matter of personal convenience and distinct social networks rather than an indication of any familial strife.
