Hema Malini breaks down remembering Dharmendra: ‘Don’t know how I’ll cope’ as veteran actress Hema Malini became emotional while speaking about her late husband during a tribute event in Mumbai, reflecting on his legacy, life, and deep connection with audiences across generations.
The tribute was held on Thursday at the National Gallery of Modern Art during the opening of “Lens & Legacy: Bollywood in Focus,” where Hema Malini spoke about Dharmendra’s passion for cinema and his enduring impact on Indian cinema. She described how he viewed films as a powerful way to connect with people’s hearts and emphasized that his journey was defined by dedication, warmth, and love for his audience.
Addressing attendees, she said his contribution to the film industry went far beyond his performances, noting that his personality and behavior left a lasting impression on millions. She added that Dharmendra inspired not only his peers but also younger generations, both as an actor and as a person.
Becoming visibly emotional, Hema Malini admitted that she continues to struggle with the loss. She said she misses him deeply and is unsure how she will cope in the years ahead. Dharmendra died at the age of 89 on Monday, November 24, 2025, at his residence in Mumbai, India.
The couple shared a long and successful on-screen partnership, starring together in several iconic films that contributed to their status as one of Bollywood’s most celebrated pairs. Their collaborations remain popular among audiences even today.
Following his death, the Indian film industry came together to pay tribute to the Bollywood legend. A prayer meeting organized by the Deol family in Mumbai saw the presence of several prominent actors and public figures, while others visited Hema Malini privately to offer condolences.
Additional memorial events were held in New Delhi, including a prayer gathering on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre. These tributes highlighted the widespread respect and admiration Dharmendra earned throughout his decades-long career in the film industry.
