Hema Malini Addresses Dharmendra’s Separate Prayer Meetings

Veteran actor and politician Hema Malini has clarified the recent decision to hold two separate prayer meetings for her late husband, Dharmendra, stating that it is a private family matter that does not require public concern. Following Dharmendra’s death on November 24, 2023, his family organized distinct events: one led by their children in a hotel, while Malini and her daughters, Esha and Ahana, hosted a gathering at their home.

In an interview with the Times of India, Malini explained the rationale behind the family’s choices. “This is our family’s personal matter. We talked to each other. I kept one prayer meet at my home because my group of people are different,” she said. She also emphasized the importance of hosting a prayer meeting in Delhi, given her political connections, and another in Mathura, where she serves as a Member of Parliament.

Plans for Dharmendra’s Farmhouse and Family Dynamics

Malini mentioned that Sunny Deol, Dharmendra’s son, is considering turning the family’s farmhouse into a museum. She expressed confidence that Deol will manage this endeavor appropriately, stating, “He will definitely do it. Everything is happening in a nice way.” She urged the public not to worry about the division between the families, emphasizing their unity during this challenging time.

Reflecting on the final days of Dharmendra’s life, Malini shared the family’s hope to celebrate his 90th birthday on December 8. “It has been terrible because for a month we were struggling when he was not well,” she recalled. The entire family, including Sunny, Bobby Deol, and the daughters, remained together during his illness, which made his passing particularly difficult.

“To personally see him sink was very difficult,” Malini said. She criticized media coverage during this sensitive time, noting that some outlets prematurely reported Dharmendra’s death, prompting her and Esha Deol to issue statements to clarify the situation. “Sunny was getting upset and angry. We all were going through an emotional time and the media was running behind our cars. Harassment bahut hua,” she reflected.

Legacy and Personal Reflections

Malini shared that they miss Dharmendra deeply, especially during moments when they prepare his favorite meals. “He loved eating thepla with chutney and enjoyed the idli sambar and coffee made at home,” she said. The family’s memories of him are rich, and Malini emphasized the importance of cherishing those moments. “It is important for us to keep him alive in our hearts and memories,” she added.

The actor, now 77, plans to return to her professional commitments and visit her constituency in Mathura. She is also looking to resume her dance performances, believing it would be what Dharmendra would have wanted. “Whenever I had to make a decision, I would ask him,” she stated, highlighting their close bond.

As she navigates this period of grief, Malini encourages fans not to believe everything they see online, particularly videos that depict her in emotional distress. “I am a very strong person. Time doesn’t wait for anybody,” she concluded, acknowledging the lasting impact Dharmendra had on her life and the lives of their family members.