Hema Malini Addresses Family Unity Amid Grief for Dharmendra
In the wake of legendary actor Dharmendra's passing, speculation about tensions within the extended Deol family has persisted. However, Hema Malini has now issued a firm and emotional rebuttal to these rumors, emphasizing the deep bonds that unite them all.
"There Is No Negativity at All"
Speaking exclusively to Hindustan Times, Hema Malini directly addressed the dynamics involving Dharmendra's children—Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol from his first marriage, and her own daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. "Papa hai na, papa ke liye sab karenge—be it these bachchas (Esha, Ahana) or those bachchas (Sunny, Bobby)," she stated, highlighting their shared devotion to their father.
"They were all very fond of Dharamji. They are very fond of each other. There is no negativity at all between the family," she asserted. With heartfelt emotion, she added, "When Dharamji is there, where is the negativity? Dharamji was a source of love, strength and values that he has passed on to them."
Public Appearances Silence Gossip
Recent events have further demonstrated this familial solidarity. Esha and Ahana Deol made a notable appearance to support Sunny Deol at a screening of his upcoming film Border 2, a gesture that Hema Malini explained was rooted in genuine care. "I was invited too but I could not make it. They were very keen that I come and watch the movie," she shared.
She expressed frustration with public scrutiny, noting, "We don't display all these moments in public and why should we? It's all within our family. People should understand instead of talking this and that. We are all okay and we will cope with this void."
Dharmendra Honored at BAFTA's 'In Memoriam' Segment
These reflections come shortly after Dharmendra was posthumously honored in the 'In Memoriam' segment at the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) in London. He stood as the sole Indian actor featured in this year's tribute, alongside international luminaries such as Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall, and Brigitte Bardot.
Hema Malini described the recognition as a "proud and moving moment." "It was a beautiful moment and he deserves it. It's a huge honour not just for us but for the entire country. None of the Indian artistes have received it this year," she remarked.
She elaborated on Dharmendra's global appeal, saying, "He had fans not just across the country but over the world—so inspiring not just as an actor but as a human being. There will never be another like him so we are all happy and excited about the BAFTA mention."
Grief and Remembrance Three Months On
February 24 marked three months since Dharmendra's passing, and the sense of loss remains profound for Hema Malini. "It's not possible to accept that he has gone. I think of it and get teary eyed but we have to get out of the sadness and I'm a strong person. However strong you are it's not possible, breakdown toh hota hai," she admitted candidly.
The grief extends beyond the immediate family, touching all who knew him. "All the associates, his spot boy, everyone is so sad. They keep coming to me and saying, 'Saab ki yaad aa rahi hai, main saab ko chai deta tha.' So you can imagine how much we are missing him," she revealed.
Reflecting on their shared journey, she added, "What we have done in the past will remain as memories for the audience now. I'm glad that more than half my life was spent as a co-artiste as well as him being my life partner."
Future Prospects and Dharmendra's Encouragement
Despite her grief, Hema Malini remains active in her artistic pursuits and open to new opportunities. "If any good film role comes my way I will do it, kuch achcha aata hi nahi. I'm not sure about OTT," she stated regarding potential acting roles.
She fondly recalled Dharmendra's unwavering support for her dance performances. "Dharamji loved watching me dance and would say I should never stop because it's important to be mentally and physically fit. Even at shootings I would take my guruji with me, so Dharmji ki unse dosti bhi ho gayi. He loved watching the girls dance too and appreciated that we are maintaining Indian tradition," she shared, underscoring his role as a pillar of encouragement in their lives.
