When Sanjeev Kumar wanted to marry Hema Malini and what made it an unrequited love story?

Bollywood has given us countless love stories on screen, but some of the most intriguing ones are those that never got their happy ending in real life. One such story involves two legendary stars, Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini. Their tale is not just about admiration or unspoken affection; it's also about heartbreak, missed chances, and the silent sacrifices that shaped their destinies.

A Love That Sparked Off-Screen

It was the early 1970s, a golden era for Hindi cinema, when Sanjeev Kumar, already gaining fame for his versatile acting, found himself enchanted by the graceful and ever-radiant Hema Malini. Often referred to as Bollywood's Dream Girl, Hema had captured the hearts of millions, and Sanjeev was no exception.

Deeply smitten, Sanjeev Kumar did what many wouldn't dare in those times. He formally approached Hema's parents to ask for her hand in marriage. It was a bold, sincere move, but not everyone was on board. Hema's mother, Jaya Chakravarthy, reportedly had different plans. She had already chosen a suitor for her daughter, someone from their own South Indian Iyengar community, which made Sanjeev an unsuitable match in her eyes.

Despite Sanjeev's deep feelings, Hema stood by her mother's decision. Her quiet refusal not only ended his hopes but also deeply wounded Sanjeev. What could've been a beautiful partnership instead left behind silence and sorrow.

But Sanjeev Kumar hadn't given up just yet. A few years later, destiny brought them together again, this time on the sets of Sholay (1975), one of Indian cinema's most iconic films. The film starred both Sanjeev and Hema, alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra.

According to industry whispers and vintage gossip columns, Sanjeev made one last attempt to win Hema's heart. In an unplanned, emotional moment, he is said to have approached her during the shoot and proposed again. However, what Sanjeev didn't realize was that Hema had already moved on. She was in a serious relationship with her Sholay co-star, Dharmendra.

This unexpected proposal reportedly created a rift on set. Dharmendra, known for his fierce loyalty and protective nature, was far from pleased. It is said that he immediately approached director Ramesh Sippy to request that Sanjeev and Hema not be shown together in the same frame.

And believe it or not, that wish was honored. If you watch Sholay closely, you'll notice that although both Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini are part of the film, they never share a single scene. The magic of editing and smart direction kept their paths apart on screen, just like in real life.

“Sanjeev loved deeply, and once he gave his heart, he didn’t know how to take it back", a close friend quoted in interviews and his biography.

“There were undercurrents, but we kept the environment professional. Ramesh ji handled it all with grace", crew members from the sets of the film had said in previous interviews.

A Love Story Lost In Time

Sanjeev Kumar never married, and many close to him believed he never quite recovered from the heartbreak. Hema Malini, of course, went on to marry Dharmendra in 1980, and together, they created their own legacy in Bollywood and beyond.

Though their love story didn't find a happy ending, the emotional depth of it continues to resonate with fans even today. In a world where Bollywood romances are often larger than life, this quiet, painful chapter between two legends serves as a reminder of the real emotions that often go untold behind the camera.

Some love stories aren't meant to be lived, but they are meant to be remembered.

Meanwhile, released in 1975, Sholay is often hailed as the greatest Bollywood film of all time. With its unforgettable dialogues, larger-than-life characters, and genre-defining action, it became a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Ramesh Sippy, the film brought together some of Indian cinema’s biggest stars and created moments that are still quoted and celebrated decades later.

While Sanjeev Kumar’s love remained unanswered, Hema Malini’s heart eventually found its match in Dharmendra. He was already married and had children, and for many years, his personal life remained a matter of intense media scrutiny. But love prevailed. In 1980, Dharmendra and Hema Malini tied the knot in a private ceremony. It’s said that Dharmendra even converted to Islam to avoid divorcing his first wife, as per legal requirements at the time.

Despite the societal pressures, the couple remained steadfast and built a strong life together. They have two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, and continue to be seen as one of Bollywood’s most iconic pairs, both on and off screen.