'Sholay' director recalls how Dharmendra-Hema's love blossomed on set
What's the story
Filmmaker Ramesh Sippy recently opened up about the off-screen romance between actors Dharmendra and Hema Malini during the making of Sholay. The film has been re-released in 4K in Indian theaters this week, marking its 50th anniversary. In an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Sippy revealed that Dharmendra's relationship with Malini was at its peak during the filming of Sholay. He also revealed that the actor was actually drunk in one iconic scene where he confesses his love for Malini's character.
Details
'He drank a few pegs...'
Sippy said, "He was in the mood. He drank a few pegs. I know that because I could see it in the way he climbed up and down the water tank." "When I followed him up the water tank, he assured me nothing would happen and that it's all acting. So, I gave him a free hand." "Because it was his confession of love in front of everyone."
Reflection
Sippy's thoughts on Dharmendra and Malini's romance
Sippy agreed that the performance leaned into "method acting," noting that Dharmendra was deeply invested in the moment due to his real feelings toward Malini. "What's happening in the film, that's also the reality now. So, it felt nice." "I also felt it's good for the film because the real romance reflects on screen as well," he recalled his reaction.
Past project
Dharmendra passed away last month
In an earlier interview, Sippy also revealed how he convinced Dharmendra to play Veeru when the actor wanted to play Gabbar or Thakur instead. "You won't get Hema Malini otherwise!" Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. He is survived by his wife, actor Malini, and their daughters Esha and Ahana Deol, as well as his children Sunny, Bobby, Vijeta and Ajeeta Deol from his marriage to Prakash Kaur.