Hema Malini speaks on family feud rumours: 'We dont display all these moments in public'

Late actor Dharmendra was remembered at the 79th BAFTA Film Awards in London, where he featured in the In Memoriam segment. The veteran star, who passed away in November 2025, was the only Indian actor honoured in the tribute section this year alongside several international names.

Reacting to the recognition, wife and actor Hema Malini said, “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 admitted that the loss still feels unreal. “What we have done in the past will 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 it's not possible, breakdown toh hota hai.”

February 24 marked three months since his passing. Hema said members of his team often visit her and recall small memories. “Saab ki yaad aa rahi hai main saab koi chai deta tha,” she shared, describing how deeply he is missed.

There had been speculation about differences within the extended family. However, daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol recently attended a screening to support Sunny Deol’s film Border 2, putting rumours to rest.

Hema responded firmly, “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, when Dharamji is there, where is the negativity? Dharamji was a source of love, strength and values that he has passed on to them. I was invited too but I could not make it. They were very keen that I come and watch the movie. We dont display all these moments in public and why should we? It's all within our family and why should we expose it? People should understand instead of talking this and that. We are all okay and we will cope with this void.”

She added that she continues with her dance commitments and remains open to meaningful film roles if offered.