As the esteemed actress and politician Hema Malini marked her 60 years in the Indian film industry, she took part in a special event to celebrate this significant milestone. During the occasion, Hema expressed her belief that Deepika Padukone would be an ideal candidate to portray her in a potential biopic. “If she desires to, she can certainly take on the role. Anyone can embody it, as Deepika is an exceptionally talented and beautiful individual,” Hema remarked when asked about her preference for Deepika in this capacity. Notably, Hema had previously chosen Deepika to unveil her biography, “Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl,” which was penned by Ram Kamal Mukherjee in 2017.
Interestingly, one of the characters portrayed by Deepika in her debut film, Farah Khan’s 2007 hit “Om Shanti Om,” was inspired by Hema Malini, who is fondly remembered as the “Dreamy Girl,” a nod to Hema’s iconic title, “Dream Girl.”
Hema addressed attendees at the concert titled “Hema Malini — Live in Concert: Celebrating the Dream Girl’s Diamond Jubilee — 60 Glorious Years in Cinema,” held at Mumbai’s Shanmukhananda Hall on Friday evening. The event featured a 15-piece live orchestra that showcased significant moments from her cinematic journey through music.
Produced and directed by RJ Anirudh, the charity event also honored Hema’s late husband, renowned actor Dharmendra, who passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89. Additionally, the concert contributed Rs 10 lakh to support film organizations, including the Cine and TV Artists’ Association (CINTAA) and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE).
Reflecting on the magnificent celebration, Hema expressed her gratitude for the well-organized event, stating, “The Diamond Jubilee of my career in the film industry was celebrated with such grandeur that it was truly awe-inspiring! The audience was deeply engaged in the music…”
Hema also took a moment to acknowledge the crucial role her late mother and producer Jaya Chakravarti played in her career, stating, “I am grateful to my mother for her unwavering support. I believe mothers significantly impact their children’s lives and careers. My family has always been there for me, which has allowed me to thrive.”
Hema and Dharmendra share two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol. However, Hema shared that Esha was unable to attend the event due to a viral infection. Actor Madhoo, Hema’s cousin, attended and spoke affectionately about Hema’s resilience in facing life’s challenges. “Life has its difficulties, but Hema always maintains her poise. She doesn’t dwell on her hardships. I asked her how she manages, and she told me, ‘The world is curious about how I handle my issues, but I won’t indulge that curiosity. Each morning, I consult with Mr. Krishna, who helps me find solutions.’ I’ve learned from her the importance of facing problems with hope and living in the moment,” Madhoo remarked.
Hema also expressed appreciation for the beautiful saree designed for her by Shyamal Bhumika for the occasion. She welcomed several of her former co-stars and friends, including Jeetu ji, Shatru, and Rakesh Roshan, to join in the celebration.
Numerous filmmakers, co-stars, and technicians who have collaborated with Hema Malini were present to honor her remarkable career. Veteran director Ramesh Sippy reminisced about their long-standing professional relationship, praising her exceptional memory and ability to recall her lines. “She was eager to take on a double role in ‘Seeta Aur Geeta,’” he recalled, noting her lasting legacy as Basanti from the classic film “Sholay.” Their most recent project together, the romantic comedy “Shimla Mirchi,” was released in 2020 after several delays.
Poonam Dhillon, who appeared alongside Hema in the 1981 film “Dard,” referred to Hema as the “pride” of the film industry, commending her dedication to both acting and her political career. Hema has been a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party since the early 2000s and has served as a Member of Parliament for Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, since 2014.
Other notable co-stars from Hema’s extensive filmography, including filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha, and veteran actor Jeetendra, were also in attendance to celebrate her journey.
The evening was further enhanced by captivating performances from talented singers, who enchanted the audience with their renditions, evoking cherished memories of Hema’s iconic songs. “It was a truly unforgettable experience…” Hema shared, reflecting on the overwhelming response from the audience.
Singer Kavita Krishnamurthy reminisced about her long-standing connection with Hema, recalling how she sang the song “Delhi Mein Mera Dil Na Laga” from the film “Rihaee” in 1988. “I’ve known Hema ji since I was a child. Our families have been intertwined for years. It’s been a joy to witness her journey to stardom,” Kavita said.
