Hema Malini has spoken about Dharmendra being remembered at the BAFTA Awards, shared her private grief, and firmly dismissed rumours of friction with Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, stressing that the extended family remains united while adjusting to life without the veteran actor.
Dharmendra, who died in November 2025, was honoured in the ‘In Memoriam’ segment at the 79th BAFTA Awards held in London. The screen icon was the only Indian actor included in this year’s tribute, placed alongside Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall, Rob Reiner, Tom Stoppard, Brigitte Bardot, Udo Kier and Diane Ladd.
Hema Malini Reacts To BAFTA Honouring Dharmendra
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Hema Malini recalled the emotional impact of watching Dharmendra’s image during the ceremony. “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. 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,” she said.
Hema Malini underlined that the recognition felt larger than her immediate family. For Hema Malini, Dharmendra’s global fan base and reputation as a warm colleague made the tribute meaningful. The segment, traditionally dedicated to departed artists, placed the Hindi film star within a global group of performers remembered for major contributions.
Reflecting on their long association, Hema Malini said the memories from their films now belong entirely to the audience. “What we have done in the past remains 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. 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, a breakdown toh hota hai.”
February 24 marked three months since Dharmendra’s death, and the absence is felt daily on and off set. Hema Malini mentioned that people who worked closely with Dharmendra still visit and share stories. “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 koi chai deta tha.’ So you can imagine how much we are missing him,” she added.
Hema Malini On Rift With Sunny & Bobby Post Dharmendra’s Demise
Amid speculation about tension between Hema Malini and Dharmendra’s first family, including Prakash Kaur, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta and Ajeita, Hema Malini stressed that the bond between the children remains affectionate, and every member stayed emotionally close to Dharmendra during his lifetime.
Addressing those rumours directly, Hema Malini said the families stand together in grief. “Papa hai na, papa ke liye sab karenge, be it these bachchas (Esha, Ahana) or those bachchas (Sunny, Bobby). They were all very fond of Dharamji. They are very fond of each other. There is no negativity at all between the family. Dharamji was a source of love, strength, and values that he has passed on to them. We are all okay and we will cope with this void.”
Hema Malini also recalled how Dharmendra supported activities that kept her energised and positive. “If any good film role comes my way I will do it, kuch achcha aata hi nahi. I’m not sure about OTT. 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.”
Besides stage performances and possible future roles, Hema Malini continues to navigate personal loss while honouring Dharmendra’s beliefs about discipline, culture and family. The BAFTA acknowledgment, the affection from colleagues and the visible unity among all the children now serve as steady reminders of the values Dharmendra left behind.