The late legendary actor Dharmendra, who passed away in November 2025, was honored at the 79th BAFTA Awards Memorial Ceremony held in London last Sunday. In a heartfelt tribute, the British Academy recognized his immense contribution to cinema, making him the only Indian actor to be included in this year’s posthumous memorial segment. The tribute placed Dharmendra among global cinematic icons such as Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall, Rob Reiner, Tom Stoppard, Brigitte Bardot, Udo Kier, and Diane Ladd, a testament to his international recognition and enduring legacy.
Speaking to one of the media houses, Dharmendra’s wife and veteran actress Hema Malini shared her emotions about the prestigious honor. “It was a beautiful moment, and he deserved it. It’s a huge honor not only for us but for the entire country. No other Indian artist has received this honor this year. He had fans not only across the country but across the world. He was incredibly inspiring not only as an actor but also as a human being. There will be no one like him,” she said.
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Her words reflect the pride felt not just by the family, but by millions of admirers across India and abroad. Recalling their decades-long journey together, Hema Malini expressed a deep sense of loss and nostalgia. She revealed that she wished they could have shared the screen one final time. “Whatever we did in the past now remains as memories for the audience. I’m glad I spent more than half of my life with him, both as a co-star and as a life partner. It’s impossible to accept that he’s gone. I think about it and tears come to my eyes, but we have to overcome this grief, and I’m a strong person,” she shared.
Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen bond made them one of Bollywood’s most iconic couples, leaving behind a cinematic legacy that continues to inspire generations. Amid speculation regarding tensions within Dharmendra’s extended family, Hema Malini dismissed any negativity. Dharmendra is survived by his first wife Prakash Kaur, sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, daughters Vijeta and Ajeta, as well as daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol with Hema.
“There’s no negativity. Papa is there, so we’ll do everything for Papa, whether it’s Esha, Ahana, Sunny, or Bobby. They all loved Dharamji very much. They love each other very much,” she clarified. Her statement puts to rest rumors and emphasizes unity within the family during this emotional period. While mourning the loss of her husband, Hema Malini remains active in her artistic pursuits. She revealed that she is currently busy with dance shows but remains open to meaningful film roles.
“If I get a good film role, I’ll definitely do it; nothing good comes my way. I’m not sure about over-the-top films. Dharamji loved watching my dance and told me to never stop because it’s important to stay mentally and physically fit,” she said. She also fondly recalled how Dharmendra supported her passion for classical dance and admired her dedication to preserving Indian traditions
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