New Delhi: Veteran actor Hema Malini has finally addressed rumours of a rift within the Deol family following the death of legendary star Dharmendra. Speaking candidly after his recent BAFTA tribute, she dismissed speculation and said the family remains united in grief.

Dharmendra, who passed away in November 2025, was honoured in the ‘In Memoriam’ segment at the 79th BAFTA Awards in London. He was the only Indian actor featured this year, alongside global names such as Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall and Brigitte Bardot. For Hema, the moment was deeply emotional.

Hema Malini reacts to BAFTA’S tribute to Dharmendra

“It was a beautiful moment and he deserves it. It’s a huge honour not just for us but for the entire country. None of the Indian artistes have received it this year. He had fans not just across the country but over the world, so inspiring not just as an actor but as a human being. There will never be another like him, so we are all happy and excited about the BAFTA mention,” she said.

Reflecting on their long partnership, both on screen and off, Hema admitted that accepting his absence has not been easy. “What we have done in the past remains as memories for the audience now. I’m glad that more than half my life was spent as a co-artiste as well as him being my life partner. It’s not possible to accept that he has gone. I think of it and get teary-eyed, but we have to get out of the sadness, and I’m a strong person. However strong you are, a breakdown toh hota hai.”

February 24 marked three months since his passing. Hema shared how even Dharmendra’s long-time associates continue to visit her. “All the associates, his spot boy, everyone is so sad; they keep coming to me and saying, ‘Saab ki yaad aa rahi hai. Main saab koi chai deta tha.’ So you can imagine how much we are missing him,” she added.

No negativity between the Deol siblings says Hema Malini

Addressing rumours of tension between her daughters Esha and Ahana and Dharmendra’s sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, Hema was firm. “Papa hai na, papa ke liye sab karenge, be it these bachchas (Esha, Ahana) or those bachchas (Sunny, Bobby). They were all very fond of Dharamji. They are very fond of each other. There is no negativity at all between the family. Dharamji was a source of love, strength, and values that he has passed on to them. We are all okay and we will cope with this void.”

Hema also revealed she continues to focus on dance performances and remains open to meaningful film roles. “If any good film role comes my way I will do it, kuch achcha aata hi nahi. I’m not sure about OTT. Dharamji loved watching me dance and would say I should never stop because it’s important to be mentally and physically fit.”