Hema Malini turns 78: seven things about the Dream Girl, from Tamil debut to dance and animal welfare

Veteran actress Hema Malini, known as Bollywood's "Dream Girl", is celebrating her 78th birthday today, October 16. On the strength of her beauty, powerful acting and dance skills, she ruled the hearts of audiences for several decades. She is not only an actress but also an accomplished classical dancer, a film producer-director and a politician. Here are seven things about her life.

First is the "Dream Girl" identity. In 1968 she made her debut in Hindi cinema as a lead actress in Sapno Ka Saudagar, opposite Raj Kapoor. During the film's promotion she was presented as the "Dream Girl". A film of the same name was released in 1970, and gradually the name became permanently linked with her.

Second, before becoming popular in Hindi, she had worked in a Tamil film. Idhu Sathiyam was one of her early films. After this film, released in 1962, she turned to Hindi cinema and carved out a distinct place for herself in Bollywood through her acting.

Third is her fee. In the 1970s and the early 1980s, Hema Malini was among the highest-paid actresses in Hindi cinema. Audiences warmly welcomed her roles in Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, Johny Mera Naam and Andaz. Her ability to play both comic and serious roles was a major reason for her popularity.

Fourth is a link with the Kapoor family. She worked in different films with five Kapoor actors: Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor. Getting to act alongside performers from different generations is an interesting part of her long film career.

Fifth is her classical dance. Hema Malini is a trained Bharatanatyam dancer. Her love for the dance has shown in many of her performances. By dancing on many stages, she has helped spread Indian culture and traditional arts.

Sixth is dance-drama. Alongside acting, she has also performed in dance-dramas. In 2024, on the occasion of the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, she played Goddess Sita in a dance-drama based on the Ramayana. The performance, which brought together mythology and classical dance, drew special attention.

Seventh is her love for animals. Hema Malini is a vegetarian and is also known for her love of animals. In recognition of her work related to animal protection, PETA India honoured her with its Person of the Year award in 2011. While working in acting, dance and politics, she has also spoken out on animal welfare issues.

Her journey has not been limited to films. Besides film production and direction, she has also worked in programmes on Doordarshan. She stepped into direction with the film Dil Aashna Hai, and later took an active part in politics as well. Having maintained her identity in the entertainment world for several decades, Hema Malini's many-sided journey remains an inspiration for fans even today.