The year 2025 concluded on a profoundly sorrowful note for veteran actress and politician Hema Malini, who faced a loss she was entirely unprepared for. The legendary 'He-Man' of Hindi cinema, Dharmendra, passed away on November 24, 2025, leaving a void in the film industry and his family. In an exclusive and heartfelt conversation, Hema Malini opened up about the traumatic period, the family's unity, and how she plans to move forward while cherishing his memory.
A Month of Struggle and Sudden Goodbye
Describing Dharmendra's death as an 'inconsolable shock', Hema Malini recounted the difficult month leading to it. "It has been terrible because for a month we were struggling when he was not well," she shared. The entire family, including Hema, daughters Esha and Ahana, and sons Sunny and Bobby, stayed together at the hospital, clinging to hope. "We thought 'iss baar bhi aa jayenge' (he will come this time as well)," she said, reflecting their belief in his recovery.
The suddenness of the event was particularly heartbreaking as Dharmendra was reportedly speaking well and had even wished Hema Malini on her birthday. Preparations were actively underway for his 90th birthday celebration on December 8. "The preparations were on, and then suddenly, he was not there," the actress revealed, highlighting the cruel twist of fate.
Personal Grief and Public Misinformation
Witnessing Dharmendra's health decline was an intensely personal agony for Hema Malini. "To personally see him sink was very difficult. Nobody should have to go through this kind of situation," she expressed. In the wake of his passing, she also addressed the barrage of online content, specifically videos falsely showing her in distress. Urging fans to be discerning, she stated, "There is so much content that I am seeing where there are videos of me crying... But I am a very strong person. I keep my emotions to myself."
She drew strength from past experiences, recalling her mother's death two decades prior. "When my mother passed away 20 years ago, I wondered whether I would be able to live without her, but I did," she said, emphasizing life's lessons in resilience. Her poignant message to fans was to keep Dharmendra alive in their hearts and memories.
Moving Forward with Work and Cherished Memories
As the new year begins, Hema Malini is gradually returning to her professional commitments, believing it is what Dharmendra would have wanted. "I am resuming my work now. I am heading to Mathura," she declared. She plans to continue with her performances, shows, and other creative duties. "I will continue doing that because that is what would make Dharamji happy," she affirmed, seeing work as a path forward while holding onto his legacy.
Her daily life is filled with small reminders of him, especially his love for simple, homely food. She fondly remembered, "He liked having idli sambar, and coffee in our house. Aaj subah thepla banaya tha, which he loved having with chutney."
Addressing Family Decisions and Future Plans
Hema Malini also calmly addressed the speculation around the private funeral and separate prayer meetings held for Dharmendra. Clarifying that it was a personal family matter, she explained each gathering had a specific purpose: one for her close circle, one related to her political connections in Delhi, and one in Mathura for his countless admirers. "I am happy with what I did," she stated firmly.
On the idea of a potential museum at their Lonavala farmhouse, she indicated that son Sunny Deol might be considering such a tribute. Reassuring about the family's bond, she added, "Hum log ekdum achche hai (We all are good)." For her, the pillars of love, respect, and togetherness within the family remain unshaken despite the immense loss.
