Hema Malini is one of the most prominent actresses in Hindi cinema, known for her acting, classical dance performances and decades-long film career. Popularly known as Bollywood’s “Dream Girl,” she has also established herself as a classical dancer, film director and politician. On her birthday, here are 10 notable aspects of her life and career.
Before gaining popularity in the Hindi film industry, Hema Malini worked in Tamil cinema. She made an early appearance in the Tamil film Idhu Sathiyam, released in 1963. She subsequently moved into Hindi films and gradually established her identity in the industry. After her initial struggles, she became one of the most popular actresses of her era.
During the 1970s and the early 1980s, Hema Malini was among the highest-paid actresses in Hindi cinema. Her performances in films such as Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay and Dream Girl received considerable appreciation. Her popularity among audiences continued for several decades.
Hema Malini shared the screen with actors from different generations of the Kapoor family. Her co-stars included Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor. Working with actors across these generations was a notable part of her extensive film career.
Hema Malini is a trained Bharatanatyam dancer who has also received training in Indian classical dance forms such as Kuchipudi and Mohiniyattam. She has performed on stages in India and abroad.
To promote traditional Indian dance, she established Natya Vihar Kalakendra. In 2024, during the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, she portrayed Goddess Sita in a dance-drama based on the Ramayana.
Alongside her work in films and politics, Hema Malini has been associated with animal welfare. She is a vegetarian and has spoken about issues related to animal protection. In 2011, PETA India named her its Person of the Year in recognition of her affection for animals and efforts related to their protection.
After establishing herself in the entertainment industry, Hema Malini entered politics. She served as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009. She later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and became active in politics, building a public profile beyond the film industry.
Hema Malini and Dharmendra were among the most widely recognised on-screen pairs in Hindi cinema. They appeared together in several films, with their performances as Basanti and Veeru in Sholay becoming particularly popular with audiences. Their on-screen chemistry attracted considerable attention, and the two later married.
Hema Malini became particularly associated with the title “Dream Girl” following the release of the film Dream Girl in 1977. Her screen presence, acting and appearance helped popularise the name among audiences. Over time, the title became a lasting part of her identity in Hindi cinema.
In addition to acting, Hema Malini explored film direction and television. She previously hosted the popular Doordarshan programme Rangoli. She was also associated with the production or direction of television programmes such as Terah Panne, Rani Lakshmibai, Bharati and Nupur.
Hema Malini directed Dil Aashna Hai, released in 1992, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Divya Bharti in the lead roles. Shah Rukh Khan had signed the film before Deewana, but Deewana was released first and gave him wider recognition in Hindi cinema. Dil Aashna Hai therefore remained an important part of his early film career.
In 2011, Hema Malini directed and produced Tell Me O Kkhuda. The film featured Dharmendra, Vinod Khanna, Rishi Kapoor, Esha Deol and Arjan Bajwa, while Salman Khan appeared in a guest role.
