Even as the family continues to mourn the loss of Dharmendra, speculation around equations within the extended family refuses to die down. But Hema Malini firmly shuts down any rumours of discord.Referring to daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol and Dharmendra’s other children — Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol — she told Hindustan Times, “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.”She added with emotion, “When Dharamji is there, where is the negativity? Dharamji was a source of love, strength and values that he has passed on to them.”Esha and Ahana’s recent appearance to support Sunny at a screening of Border 2 further silenced gossip. “I was invited too but I could not make it. They were very keen that I come and watch the movie. We don’t display all these moments in public and why should we? It’s all within our family. People should understand instead of talking this and that. We are all okay and we will cope with this void.”
Dharmendra remembered at BAFTA’s ‘In Memoriam’
The emotional reflections come close on the heels of Dharmendra being honoured in the ‘In Memoriam’ segment at the 79th edition of the British Academy Film Awards in London. He was the only Indian actor to feature in the tribute this year, alongside international names like Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall, Rob Reiner, Tom Stoppard, Brigitte Bardot, Udo Kier and Diane Ladd.Calling it a proud and moving moment, Hema 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.”
“It’s not possible to accept that he has gone”
February 24 marked three months since Dharmendra’s passing, and the loss still feels raw.“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,” she admitted.The grief extends beyond the immediate family. “All the associates, his spot boy, everyone is so sad. They keep coming to me and saying, ‘Saab ki yaad aa rahi hai, main saab ko chai deta tha.’ So you can imagine how much we are missing him.”Reflecting on their shared journey, she added, “What we have done in the past will remain 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.”
“If any good film role comes my way, I will do it”
Even as she continued with dance performances, Hema said she remains open to acting again. “If any good film role comes my way I will do it, kuch achcha aata hi nahi. I’m not sure about OTT.”She fondly recalled Dharmendra’s encouragement. “Dharamji loved watching me dance and would say I should never stop because it’s important to be mentally and physically fit. Even at shootings I would take my guruji with me, so Dharmji ki unse dosti bhi ho gayi. He loved watching the girls dance too and appreciated that we are maintaining Indian tradition.”
