Veteran actor and parliamentarian Hema Malini has shared her profound grief following the passing of her husband, the legendary actor Dharmendra, describing a life without him as "unimaginable." In an exclusive and emotional interview, the 'Dream Girl' of Bollywood opened up about her loss, their 57-year journey together, and firmly dismissed baseless speculation about a rift with Dharmendra's first family.
A Bond That Defined a Lifetime
It has been nearly a month and a half since Dharmendra, fondly known as Bollywood's 'He-Man', left his legion of fans and family heartbroken. Hema Malini, while acknowledging her deep sorrow, is attempting to navigate the path towards healing. "We were together for 57 years. I can't imagine a life without him; I miss him every minute," she revealed, capturing the essence of their enduring partnership.
She reminisced about their constant connection despite busy individual schedules. Dharmendra would frequently call her while she was travelling and would make a special effort to return from his farm in Lonavala to be with her and their daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol. "He would always ask, 'Where are you? When are you coming? Are you coming back? Then, I am also coming back from Lonavala.' He would come and be here with me and the family. I feel sad without him," she shared, highlighting the void his absence has created.
Dismissing Rumours of Family Discord
Addressing the swirling rumours of discord with Dharmendra's first wife, Prakash Kaur, and their sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, Hema Malini was unequivocal in her dismissal. The speculation had gained traction after separate prayer meetings were held by the families following Dharmendra's demise.
"It has always been very nice and cordial. Even today it is very nice. I don't know why people think something is wrong with us," she stated firmly. She expressed sadness that people use others' grief to create sensational stories. "Why should I answer them? Is it necessary for me to give an explanation? It's my life. Our personal life. We are absolutely happy and very close to each other," she asserted, putting all rumours to rest.
She also mentioned that Sunny Deol is planning a museum in honour of his father and that the families consult each other on such matters. "He will tell me whatever he does, he tells me," she added, underscoring the ongoing communication and respect between them.
Remembering the Final Days and a Legacy of Love
Reflecting on Dharmendra's final days, Hema Malini mentioned he was back home after a hospital visit. "Till that time, I am sure he was alright. I felt he would be around for one or two more years, definitely," she said, expressing the suddenness of the loss. She chose to focus on the fullness of his life, stating, "He had a wonderful life... He had the best of life. Whatever he desired, he had it. Such a sweet person he was."
When asked about his last film, 'Ekkis', she admitted it would be too overwhelming to watch at the moment, a sentiment echoed by her daughters. "Maybe I will watch it later when the wounds start healing," she said.
As she continues her public duties and personal journey of healing, Hema Malini's words paint a picture of a legendary love story, a family united in grief, and a strength that comes from decades of shared life. Her interview stands as a poignant tribute to a man loved by millions and a relationship that withstood the test of time in the public eye.
