Did You Know Dharmendra Asked Sholay Director Not To Shoot Any Scenes Of Hema Malini & Sanjeev Kumar Together?

Hema Malini's career in Bollywood took off after her debut in the Hindi film, Sapno Ka Saudagar, in 1968. She starred opposite the legendary actor Raj Kapoor and caught the attention of both critics and audiences with her captivating performance. This marked the beginning of a successful journey for Hema Malini, as she on to deliver several blockbuster hits in the following years.

Known for her versatility, Hema Malini effortlessly portrayed a wide range of characters, from the innocent and bubbly to the strong and independent. Some of her notable films include Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, and Baghban, among many others. She not only proved her prowess as an actor but also showcased her exceptional dancing skills, earning the title of Bollywood's "Dream Girl".

Apart from her acting career, Hema Malini has also made significant contributions to Indian politics. She joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament. Her dedication and commitment to both her artistic and political pursuits have made her an inspiration for many aspiring actors and politicians alike.

Hema Malini's Iconic Role in Sholay

Hema Malini's performance as Basanti in Sholay has become iconic in Indian cinema. The talkative and spirited tangewali won the hearts of the audience with her vivacious personality and delightful conversations. Despite being one of the main characters in the film, it is notable that Hema Malini's character never shared a scene with Sanjeev Kumar, who portrayed Thakur. This creates an interesting dynamic that adds depth to the story.Furthermore, it is intriguing to observe that Thakur's character never refers to Basanti by name throughout the film. This absence of direct acknowledgement from such a significant character adds a layer of mystery and emphasizes the distinct individuality of Basanti's character. Despite these peculiarities, Hema Malini's portrayal of Basanti remains etched in the minds of viewers, making it one of the most cherished and unforgettable performances in her illustrious career.

The Untold Love Story and Professional Strife

Offscreen drama between Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini added intrigue to their lack of onscreen interaction. In the 1970s, Sanjeev Kumar had reportedly proposed to Hema Malini, but her mother denied this proposal, insisting on marrying her to someone of the same caste. Although Hema Malini was not opposed to Kumar's proposal initially, she eventually was persuaded by her mother not to proceed. This incident resulted in a strained relationship between the two actors.

The tension between Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini was palpable, impacting their professional dynamics. Despite being part of the same film industry, they rarely shared the screen, leaving audiences curious about their clash. Behind the scenes, their failed love story remained a topic of speculation, fueling gossip columns and fan discussions. While their chemistry onscreen might have been non-existent, the offscreen drama between Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini added a layer of complexity to their interactions, leaving an intriguing mark on the annals of Bollywood history.

Rejection, Heartbreak, and Dharmendra's Intervention

While filming Sholay, Sanjeev Kumar proposed to Hema Malini again. At that time, Hema Malini and co-star Dharmendra were in a relationship. His proposal irked both Dharmendra and Hema, leading Dharmendra to request director Ramesh Sippy to avoid shooting any scenes featuring Hema and Sanjeev together. Acquiescing to Dharmendra's request, the director complied owing to Dharmendra's high profile status in the industry. This further deepened the rift between Hema Malini and Sanjeev Kumar, leading to Hema's rejection of Kumar's proposal.

From being the Dream Girl of Bollywood to becoming a notable politician, Hema Malini’s journey has been inspiring and full of remarkable events. As she celebrates her 71st birthday, we reminisce her exceptional career and journey that is marked with memorable roles, an untold love story, and consistent contributions to Indian cinema.