New Delhi: Hema Malini was seen on the silver screen after a long time in the 2003 film ‘Baghban’, also starring Amitabh Bachchan. The veteran actress recently opened up about her initial hesitation in taking up the role in the film. She admitted that she was initially apprehensive about playing a mother to grown adults on screen. However, she eventually agreed to do the film due to her mother's insistence.
In an interview with Lehren Retro, when asked if her husband, Dharmendra, refused to watch the film because of the chemistry she shared with Amitabh Bachchan, Hema laughed it off, stating that she was unaware of such a claim. “I don’t know about that,” she said.
Reflecting on the film, Hema described it as a lovely movie and recalled how meticulous Ravi Chopra was in developing her character as he had envisioned the entire story. However, Hema, who had taken a break from films, had reservations about portraying a motherly role. During the narration of the script, she expressed her concerns to Ravi Chopra, questioning how she could play a mother to four grown-up children.
Hema shared in the interview that despite her doubts, her mother encouraged her to take on the role, emphasizing that she felt a strong connection with the story and found the character to be wonderful. Heeding her mother's advice, Hema agreed to do the film. ‘Baghban’ went on to become a major success and is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Hema's portrayal of the motherly character in ‘Baghban’ resonated with audiences and added another successful chapter to her illustrious career.
Directed by Ravi Chopra, ‘Baghban’ also featured Salman Khan, Mahima Chaudhry, Aman Varma, and Samir Soni.
Hema and Dharmendra tied the knot in 1980 when Dharmendra was already married and had four children. Together, Hema and Dharmendra have two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol.