Mumbai, Dec 8: Actress-politician Hema Malini marked late star Dharmendra’s 90th birth anniversary with an emotional note, sharing how life has changed since his passing. Posting two pictures on X, she lovingly addressed him as her “dear heart” and said it has been “more than two weeks” of trying to “gather up the pieces” after being left heartbroken.
Hema expressed gratitude for their years together, their “two beautiful girls,” and the cherished memories that continue to comfort her. She said the joyful moments they shared “can never be erased” and remain a source of solace.
On his birthday, she prayed for peace and happiness for Dharmendra, praising his humility, goodness, and love for people.
Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at 89, was regarded as one of Indian cinema’s greatest and most successful actors. With a career spanning over six decades and more than 300 films, he held the record for the highest number of hit Hindi films. He received the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
After debuting in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere, Dharmendra rose to fame with Ayee Milan Ki Bela, Phool Aur Patthar, and Aaye Din Bahar Ke. He went on to deliver numerous iconic films—from Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Mera Gaon Mera Desh to later performances in Life in a… Metro, Apne, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.
Dharmendra will be seen posthumously in Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis, a war drama starring Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, based on the life of Param Vir Chakra recipient Arun Khetarpal. The film is scheduled for release in December.
