'He was...down to earth': Hema Malini's emotional tribute to Dharmendra
What's the story
Veteran actor Hema Malini recently paid an emotional tribute to her late husband, legendary actor Dharmendra, at a prayer meet in Delhi. The event was attended by their daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. In her speech, Malini reminisced about their 57-year-long association in the film industry and emphasized the humility and grounded nature of Dharmendra.
Tribute
'Whether people were from any walk of life...'
Malini said, "He was always very down to earth, and this was the quality everyone loved about him." "Whether people were from any walk of life, young or old, rich or poor...he spoke to everyone with great love...respect." "My association with Dharmendra ji is of 57 years; from the time I entered the film industry, I mostly got the opportunity to work with him." "We did nearly 45 films together...So together we were considered a hit pair."
Career highlights
Malini highlighted Dharmendra's versatility and love for comedy
Malini also praised Dharmendra's versatility as an actor, mentioning his roles in films like Razia Sultan and Alibaba Aur 40 Chor. "In a film like Razia Sultan he played Yakub, and along with that in the Indo-Russian production Alibaba Aur 40 Chor he played Alibaba, and by doing such roles he won the hearts of Russian fans as well." "He was very passionate about films; he loved to be in front of the camera."
Hidden talent
'Gradually, another hidden aspect of Dharmendra ji...'
Malini also fondly remembered Dharmendra's hidden talent for poetry. "Gradually, another hidden aspect of Dharmendra ji's personality emerged when he began reciting Urdu poetry; his special trait was that in any situation he would immediately recite a couplet suited to the moment, that was his uniqueness." "Many times I also told him that since he writes so well, he should publish it in the form of a book."
Legacy
'His life is a celebration. He has influenced...'
Malini concluded her speech by saying, "His life is a celebration. He has influenced so many people in the world and inspired countless others. The entire industry is mad about him." Dharmendra passed away on November 24, just weeks before his 90th birthday on December 8. His sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol had also held a prayer meeting in Mumbai after his demise, which was attended by several Bollywood stars.