Hema Malini Shuts Down Trolls with Smiling Remark After Mathura Event Backlash
Veteran actress and politician Hema Malini has delivered a sharp response to online criticism. This follows a video from a sports event in Mathura that sparked trolling over her expression. The actress faced backlash for appearing 'cold' while distributing medals. Now, she has addressed the issue in her own understated way.
'I Am Smiling, Okay?' - Malini's Clear Message to Critics
On Thursday, Hema Malini stepped out in Mumbai to cast her vote in the ongoing Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. After completing her civic duty, she interacted with waiting paparazzi and posed for photographs. While smiling brightly for the cameras, she made a pointed remark that clearly targeted her online critics.
'I am smiling, okay? Now don't complain that I don't smile,' she told photographers. This statement served as a direct response to the social media users who had trolled her earlier in the week. Her calm yet firm words effectively shut down the unwarranted criticism about her demeanor.
What Triggered the Online Backlash Against Hema Malini
The controversy began when a video from January 12 surfaced online. The clip showed Hema Malini presenting medals at an MP Sports Competition in Mathura. In the footage, she awarded medals to student participants with a neutral expression. She did not shake hands or offer verbal congratulations during the ceremony.
Several social media users quickly criticized her demeanor. They called it 'cold' and trolled her extensively for not smiling throughout the medal distribution. The video gained significant traction across various platforms, leading to widespread discussion about celebrity behavior at public events.
Celebrities Participate in Mumbai Civic Polls
Apart from Hema Malini, numerous other celebrities were spotted at polling booths across Mumbai. They came out to exercise their democratic right in the BMC elections. The star-studded list included popular actors and filmmakers who participated actively in the civic polls.
Notable personalities seen casting their votes included:
- Twinkle Khanna
- John Abraham
- Divya Dutta
- Tamannaah Bhatia
- Akshay Kumar
- Filmmaker Kiran Rao
Their presence highlighted the importance of civic participation among public figures.
A Year Marked by Personal Loss for the Veteran Actress
The recent controversy comes during an emotionally challenging period for Hema Malini. The year 2025 ended tragically for her family with the passing of her husband, legendary actor Dharmendra. He died on November 24 at the age of 89 after a prolonged illness.
Hema Malini organized multiple prayer meetings in his memory. She held one at her Mumbai residence separately from the prayer meet organized by Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. The actress later arranged remembrance gatherings in Delhi and Mathura as well, honoring her late husband's legacy across different cities.
'It Will Be Too Overwhelming' - Malini on Dharmendra's Final Film
In a recent interview with Screen magazine, Hema Malini revealed she has not yet watched Dharmendra's final film, Ikkis. The movie released on January 1, shortly after the actor's passing. She explained her emotional state regarding the film.
'I came to Mathura when it was released. I have to do my work here. Also, I can't see it now, it will be too overwhelming. That's what my daughters are also saying. Maybe I will watch it later when the wounds start healing,' she told the publication. Her honest admission reflects the deep personal loss she continues to experience.
The actress maintains her professional commitments while navigating this difficult personal journey. Her response to the trolling incident shows her resilience in the face of unnecessary criticism during a vulnerable time.
