Veteran actress and MP Hema Malini, along with daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, organised a special prayer meeting on December 11 to honour the memory of legendary actor Dharmendra,who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. The intimate yet significant gathering saw the presence of several high-profile political leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who arrived to pay their respects to the departed actor.

The prayer meet, held in Mumbai, became a deeply emotional moment for Hema Malini and her family. Standing on stage with Esha and Ahana by her side, Hema delivered a heartfelt tribute that reflected both her personal loss and the inspiring legacy of her late husband.

“My Co-Star Became My Life Partner” — Hema’s Emotional Tribute

In her moving speech, Hema Malini reminisced about the extraordinary journey she shared with Dharmendra. She said that the man with whom she once portrayed romantic scenes in films eventually became her true life partner. Their bond, she shared, was built on honesty, strength, and unwavering mutual support.

Hema said that their love gave them the courage to face every challenge that came their way. After they married, Dharmendra stood by her like a “pillar of strength,” offering support at every step, whether personal or professional. She expressed how deeply committed he remained throughout their marriage and how he always respected her decisions.

A Loving Father and Doting Grandfather

Hema Malini also highlighted the beautiful relationship Dharmendra shared with their daughters. She said that **Esha and Ahana were the centre of his world**, and he played the role of a loving and caring father, guiding them through every stage of life. He took pride in seeing them grow, build their lives, and eventually settle into their own families.

The actress also spoke about Dharmendra’s affection for their five grandchildren, whom he dearly cherished. His face would light up every time he met them, she said, adding that he lovingly referred to the family as a “beautiful garden” that must be nurtured with care and unity.

A Legacy Spanning Generations

Dharmendra, often called the *He-Man of Bollywood*, left behind a cinematic legacy that spans more than six decades. His remarkable body of work earned him immense respect, admiration, and love from audiences and colleagues alike. Beyond his on-screen image, he was celebrated for his warmth, humility, and strong family values—qualities that Hema Malini highlighted in her tribute.

Born in 1935, Dharmendra married **Prakash Kaur in 1954**, and the couple had four children together. Later, in 1980, he married Hema Malini, with whom he raised two more children—Esha and Ahana. His large family remained central to his life.

Earlier in November, the actor had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, and his passing on November 24 left the film industry and fans across the country mourning the loss of a true icon. His 90th birthday, which would have been celebrated on December 8, came just days after his demise.

**A Final Goodbye Filled With Love**

The prayer meeting served as a space for friends, dignitaries, and admirers to join Hema Malini and her daughters in celebrating Dharmendra’s life. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and respect as people came together to honour the actor’s contribution to cinema and to stand with his grieving family.

Hema’s heartfelt words captured not just the story of a legendary actor, but also that of a loving husband, committed father, and proud grandfather. As the family continues to cope with the loss, they hold close the memories and the legacy Dharmendra left behind—a legacy rooted in love, strength, and togetherness.

Ritu Pansy

    Content Creator