Dharmendra gifts jewellery set to Hema on birthday

Mumbai, Oct 21 (IANS) Hema Malini had a rocking birthday with hubby Dharmendra giving her a special jewellery set and daughters - Esha and Ahana - organising a grand bash.

'I enjoyed myself thoroughly because all the people I love, my close relatives and family were there. And, of course, Dharamji. How could he not be there?'

Hema turned 60 Oct 16.

Asked what Dharmendra gifted her, Hema first brushed the question off saying: 'I'm too old for gifts. And still, I'm constantly getting gifts on my birthdays. The older guests gave me saris. The younger ones made cards. As for Dharamji, he has given me so much already. For this birthday he gave his gift in advance.'

And what was that gift?

'Some very elegant jewellery that I really wanted. Actually, my birthday celebrations this year went on for a week. It started with a havan (religious ritual) on 14th and ended with the party Saturday night where I had a Bengali couple singing Ghazals - I like to encourage new talent. While they sang, our party spontaneously turned into a dance party. We all hit the floor.'

At 60, Hema seems to have suddenly discovered her fun side in a big way.

'I was always a fun person,' she protests. 'When you've two growing daughters, you kind of grow up with them and learn to have fun.'

Any regrets about the birthday party?

'None. But Rekha couldn't come. I always invite her for all my birthday parties. This time I also invited Zeenat (Aman). And she was kind enough to come. It's good to catch up with colleagues once in a while. I'd have invited Raakhee also. But she wouldn't come, I'm sure of that.'

The actress is currently busy with 'Ek Thi Rani Aisi Bhi' in which she plays erstwhile Gwalior queen Vijayaraje Scindia.