The graceful and ageless Hema Malini as she celebrates her 75th birthday. Throughout her over five decades of acting, she’s enchanted audiences with her performances in iconic films like Sholay, Sapno Ka Saudagar, Johny Mera Naam, Seeta Aur Geeta, Baghban, Veer-Zaara, and many more. Hema Malini is the embodiment of beauty, and her legacy in Bollywood is unparalleled. Beyond her cinematic achievements and timeless beauty, there’s a fascinating world of lesser-known facts that shape her remarkable journey.
On this special day, let’s unravel some of these intriguing tidbits about the OG Dream Girl Hema Malini
1) When She Became the ‘Dream Girl’
Hema Malini made her debut in Tamil cinema with “Idhu Sathiyam” and ventured into Bollywood alongside Raj Kapoor in “Sapno Ka Saudagar.” However, it was her stellar performance in the 1972 film “Seeta Aur Geeta” that earned her the coveted title of ‘Dream Girl.’ Her iconic dual role in the movie left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Hema Malini’s allure didn’t stop there; she further soared to stardom with the epic “Sholay.”
2) Setting Fashion Trends
In her early career, Hema Malini sported a swimsuit for a film scene, which didn’t sit well with her mother. As a result, she decided never to wear revealing outfits in her future films. This bold move paved the way for Hema to become a trendsetter in Bollywood. She introduced bell-bottoms to the Indian fashion scene, making them a style statement for years to come.
3) A Directorial Debut with Shah Rukh Khan
Not just a prolific actor, Hema Malini made her directorial debut with “Dil Aashna Hai,” a film in which she shared the screen with Shah Rukh Khan. Her ability to transition seamlessly into the role of a director showcases her versatility and depth as an artist.
4) The Highest-Paid Actress
During her prime, Hema Malini reigned as the highest-paid actress in Bollywood, sharing the throne with the equally illustrious Zeenat Aman. She continued to be one of the top-earning actresses from 1982 to 1985. Her magnetic presence on and off-screen undoubtedly played a significant role in her commanding this position.
5) The Quintessential Classical Dancer
Beyond her prowess as an actress, Hema Malini is renowned for her classical dance skills. She is trained in various classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Mohiniattam. She has diligently preserved these rich traditions through her Natya Vihar Kalakendra dance school. The legacy of dance transcends generations as her daughters, Esha and Ahana, also excel in this art form.
6) A Love Story That Defied All Odds
Did you know that Hema Malini and Dharmendra initially faced numerous obstacles in their path? Dharmendra, already married to Prakash Kaur, proposed to Hema, who initially rejected his advances. However, their love persevered, and they eventually became a couple. To marry, they converted to Islam. Hema became Aisha Bi R Chakravarty, and Dharmendra adopted the name Dilawar Khan. Despite their unique marital arrangement, they remain on amicable terms.
7) Proposal by Jeetendra and Sanjeev Kumar
It’s not just Dharmendra who fell for Hema’s charm. Renowned actors Jeetendra and Sanjeev Kumar also proposed marriage to her. However, she declined their proposals. Her parents even went as far as faking a marriage with Jeetendra to discourage her affection for Dharmendra.
8) A Political Career to Match Her Stardom
Hema Malini’s journey in politics commenced in 2003 when she was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President APJ Abdul Kalam. She officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2004, later assuming the role of the party’s general secretary in 2010. She further extended her political career by winning the Mathura Lok Sabha seat for the BJP in the May elections, securing her position as a Member of Parliament.
9) Awards and Accolades
Her cinematic excellence has garnered Hema Malini numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri in 2000. In 2021, she received the Indian Film Personality of the Year Award at the 52nd International Film Festival of India. These awards stand as testaments to her incredible contributions to the world of Indian cinema.
10) A Love Story That Defied All Odds
Did you know that Hema Malini and Dharmendra initially faced numerous obstacles in their path? Dharmendra, already married to Prakash Kaur, proposed to Hema, who initially rejected his advances. However, their love persevered, and they eventually became a couple. To marry, they converted to Islam. Hema became Aisha Bi R Chakravarty, and Dharmendra adopted the name Dilawar Khan. Despite their unique marital arrangement, they remain on amicable terms. This act of conversion, although unusual for the time, stands as a testament to the strength of their love and their determination to be together.
As the curtains rise on Hema Malini’s 75th year, her enigmatic journey continues to inspire generations, proving that she is not just a ‘Dream Girl’ on screen but an eternal icon in the hearts of millions.
We Team Social Kandura extend our warmest wishes to Hema Malini, for good health, happiness, and many more years of continued success. Happy 75th Birthday!
Also Read: Hema Malini Uncovers The Truth, Opens Up About Living Separately From Dharmendra
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