Hema Malini: 60 Years of Cinema & Service

Veteran actress Hema Malini is celebrating six decades in the Indian film industry, reflecting on her dynamic career. She has moved from her peak acting years in the 1970s and 1980s through to other significant activities. Malini has embraced new roles, including serving as a Member of Parliament for Mathura, stating she has the privilege of serving the people. Her iconic character, Basanti from 'Sholay,' remains a beloved persona, with audiences frequently asking her to recite dialogues. Throughout her career, her late husband, Dharmendra, was a constant source of encouragement. He inspired her to remain creatively active, particularly through dance performances and other artistic endeavors, even as her film roles decreased. Hema Malini and Dharmendra married in 1979 and later solemnized their union in 1980. Dharmendra passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89.