The year 2025 concluded with profound sorrow for veteran actress and politician Hema Malini, as she lost her husband, the iconic actor Dharmendra, on November 24. As 2026 dawns, she is gradually stepping back into her professional life, navigating the immense void left by her lifelong companion. In an exclusive and heartfelt conversation, Hema Malini spoke candidly about her loss, the pain of his final days, and the path forward for her family.
An Inconsolable Shock and a Month-Long Struggle
Reflecting on their enduring bond, Hema Malini described Dharmendra's passing as an inconsolable shock. The family had spent a harrowing month by his side in the hospital, hoping for his recovery. "We were all there—I, Esha, Ahana, Sunny, Bobby—all together," she shared. There was a glimmer of hope as he had previously bounced back from health scares, and he had even wished her on her birthday on October 16. The family was actively preparing for his 90th birthday on December 8 when tragedy struck. "To personally see him sink was very difficult. Nobody should have to go through this kind of situation," she expressed with palpable grief.
Addressing Misinformation and Cherishing Memories
The actress strongly urged the public not to believe the misleading content circulating online, including manipulated videos showing her in distress. A self-proclaimed strong person who keeps her emotions private, she drew strength from having endured the loss of her mother two decades prior. She emphasized the importance of keeping Dharmendra alive in their hearts through daily reminders. "Aaj subah thepla banaya tha, which he loved... It is important for us to keep him alive in our hearts and memories," she said, adding that watching old videos brings tears but also comfort.
She also addressed the family's distress caused by the media during Dharmendra's illness, calling it harassment. "Sunny was getting upset and angry. We all were going through an emotional time and the media was running behind our cars," she revealed.
The Lonavala Retreat and Future Plans
Hema Malini fondly recalled the serene times spent at Dharmendra's beloved farmhouse in Lonavala, which she described as feeling like a mini Punjab. He maintained cows there and would personally bring ghee for her and their daughters. The farmhouse was his sanctuary whenever she was away for work in Mathura or Delhi. Their life was a harmonious balance of time spent between her Mumbai home, Ahana's house, and Lonavala, filled with grandchildren.
When asked about the possibility of converting the Lonavala property into a museum for fans, she indicated that Sunny Deol is planning something along those lines. She assured that everything is proceeding amicably within the family, dismissing any speculation about discord.
Clarifying Separate Prayer Meetings and Returning to Work
Directly tackling the rumours about separate prayer meetings, Hema Malini clarified it was a personal family matter coordinated amongst themselves. She held one at her home for her close circle, another in Delhi for her political associates, and one in Mathura, her constituency, where people adored Dharmendra. "I am happy with what I did," she stated, putting all speculation to rest.
As she looks ahead, Hema Malini is determined to resume her work, believing it would have made Dharmendra happy. "I am resuming my work now. I am heading to Mathura. I will be starting my performances, shows... I will continue doing that because that is what would make Dharamji happy," she affirmed, signaling a resilient return to her artistic and political responsibilities.
