‘I miss him every single minute’: Hema Malini gets emotional as BAFTA 2026 honours Dharmendra

The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) paid a heartfelt tribute to veteran Hindi film star Dharmendra during its 79th edition. The legendary actor, who passed away in November 2025, was remembered among several international cinema icons. His wife, Hema Malini, expressed her gratitude for the gesture, saying it was wonderful to see him remembered at such a respected global platform, as his popularity reached every part of the world.

Hema Malini on Dharmendra’s global fan following

In a conversation with Variety India, Hema reflected on Dharmendra being recognised at BAFTA and spoke lovingly about his global fan following. She shared, “He was someone whose presence went beyond borders. He had fans in every part of the world. My God, the way he would be mobbed in foreign countries." The actress went on to mention that their travels together were quite limited, happening mostly during work. “We didn’t travel together much, except for shootings, when we got to spend time together. We would sign lots of films together so we could spend time together," she said.

Hema Malini recalls life without Dharmendra

Reflecting on life after Dharmendra’s passing, Hema admitted that his absence still feels unreal. “I miss him every single minute. I keep asking myself, is he really gone? When will I meet him again?" she shared. The actress also spoke fondly about some of his films that are closest to her heart. “I like ‘Chupke Chupke’ a lot, who doesn’t? And ‘Sholay,’ because of all the good times we had during the shooting. I haven’t seen all his films. I am going to watch them one by one as soon as I get some time," she added.

Dharmendra’s legacy and final journey

Veteran actor Dharmendra breathed his last on November 24, 2025, at his Mumbai residence. He was 89 and had been battling health issues for some time, including respiratory complications that led to a short period of hospitalisation. Known affectionately as Hindi cinema’s “He-Man,” Dharmendra enjoyed a remarkable career spanning more than sixty years. Classics like ‘Sholay’, ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’, and ‘Mera Gaon Mera Desh’ showcased his versatility, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His funeral took place at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai, where colleagues, friends, and countless admirers gathered to say their final goodbyes.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”