(Photo: IANS)
Mumbai, July 10 (IANS) Veteran actress Hema Malini, who has completed 60 years in cinema, has opened up about Dharmendra’s unwavering support and encouragement throughout her illustrious career.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, the ‘Sholay’ actress revealed how Dharmendra never let her doubt her abilities and always encouraged her to keep going. Ahead of Hema Malini: Live in Concert, a special show celebrating her iconic journey, she reflected on her career in cinema and the late actor’s unwavering support.
Recalling her journey in the industry, she said, “My journey has always been that, from time to time, whatever is meant to happen, happens. I was in full swing during the '70s and '80s. I did a lot of work. After a short gap, I did Baghban and one or two more films. But I have been busy with many other activities, like dance shows and more. Then I became a Member of Parliament, so my life has continued to evolve. I am always among the people. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to serve the public. Earlier, I used to entertain people through my films, ballets, and performances. Now, I would say I have the privilege of serving the people of Mathura.”
“I am enjoying every part of this journey. That is why you all still remember me. The moment people see me, they are reminded of Basanti. My constituents often ask me, “Please say one of Basanti’s dialogues.” Those memories are always alive, and I carry them with me wherever I go.”
Hema Malini also spoke about how Dharmendra’s constant encouragement motivated her to keep pursuing her passion beyond films. She shared that the actor never let her feel discouraged when she took fewer film projects. He always encouraged her to continue with her dance performances and other creative pursuits.
“Dharam Ji always used to tell me, 'Never think that just because you're doing fewer films, it's the end of the road. You're doing your dance performances and so many other things—just keep going. It's wonderful. He was always very encouraging and inspiring by the fact that I was constantly performing or keeping myself engaged in one activity or another. He genuinely appreciated it and would always say, 'Just keep doing all of this. Don't stop,” she said.
For the unversed, Hema Malini and Dharmendra tied the knot on August 21, 1979, in a private Nikah ceremony. The couple later got married in a traditional Iyengar ceremony in 1980, honoring Hema Malini’s family traditions and cultural roots.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini shared one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen pairings. They have starred together in over 25 films. Some of their memorable hits include “Tum Haseen Main Jawaan,” “Seeta Aur Geeta,” “Sholay,” “Dream Girl,” and “The Burning Train,” among others.
Dharmendra, known as the "He-Man" of Bollywood, passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89 in Mumbai.
Hema Malini reveals how Dharmendra improvised iconic opening steps of ‘Kal Ki Haseen Mulaqaat’ from ‘Charas’
Veteran actress Hema Malini has shared a nostalgic anecdote about the making of the popular song ‘Kal Ki Haseen Mulaqaat’ from the 1976 film ‘Charas.’ She revealed how Dharmendra brought his own creative touch to their performances.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, the actress recalled that while the song was choreographed, Dharmendra would often add his own elements and improvise his moves. Recalling the opening sequence of the song, Hema said she particularly loved the way Dharmendra improvised the moves.
The actress-turned-politician shared, “That song was scripted here, but it was shot abroad. We were all shooting, and there were so many wonderful songs. Dharam ji used to add a lot of things from his side. Whatever the dance director choreographed, it wouldn’t always happen exactly that way. Dharam ji would bring his own ideas and expressions into it. Naturally, I would adapt my performance accordingly. The opening of Kal Ki Haseen Mulaqaat was so interesting. I was pushing him, and then he would come back inside again. These little things made the performance special.”
“Charas,” directed by Ramanand Sagar, set against the backdrop of the expulsion of the Indian community from Uganda by dictator Idi Amin in 1972. The film features Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Ajit, Amjad Khan, Sujit Kumar, Aruna Irani, Asrani, Keshto Mukherjee, and Tom Alter in key roles.
“Kal Ki Haseen Mulaqat Ke Liye” is a popular romantic duet from the 1976-released film "Charas." The song, featuring Dharmendra and Hema Malini, was sung by legendary playback singers Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, with music composed by Laxmikant–Pyarelal.
Notably, Dharmendra and Hema Malini have starred together in over 25 films during their celebrated careers. Some of their most memorable collaborations include “Tum Haseen Main Jawaan,” “Seeta Aur Geeta,” “Sholay,” “Dream Girl,” and “The Burning Train,” among several other popular films.
