Born: 1948
Hema Malini (born 16 October 1948) is an Indian actress, director, producer, and politician. She is currently serving as the member of Lok Sabha representing Mathura constituency since 2014 and the member of Rajya Sabha from Karnataka from 2011 to 2012, nominated from 2003 to 2009 as a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Malini is primarily known for her work in Hindi films and is considered one of the most popular and successful leading actresses of mainstream Hindi cinema.
Malini made her acting debut in 1963 with the Tamil film Idhu Sathiyam. However, she gained recognition when she starred in the lead role in Sapno Ka Saudagar in 1968. From there, she went on to feature in numerous Hindi films, frequently opposite Dharmendra, whom she married in 1980.
Malini was initially promoted as the Dream Girl, and in 1977, she starred in a film of the same name. She gained critical acclaim and won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress for her dual role in the comedy Seeta Aur Geeta in 1972. She was nominated ten more times for the prestigious award, with her last nomination being for her role in Baghban in 2003.
Throughout her career, Malini has portrayed both comic and dramatic roles, mesmerizing audiences with her versatility and talent. She has shared screen space with some of the biggest stars of Bollywood and has delivered memorable performances in films such as Sholay (1975), Satte Pe Satta (1982), and Andaz (1971). Her on-screen chemistry with Dharmendra has been particularly celebrated, and their real-life romance added to their appeal as a leading Bollywood couple.
Malini’s talent and contribution to Indian cinema have been recognized with several prestigious awards. She received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000 and the Filmfare Special Award for 50 Years of Outstanding Contribution to Cinema in 2019. Additionally, she was honored with the Padma Shri in 2000, the fourth-highest civilian honor awarded by the Government of India.
Apart from her acting career, Malini has also made a mark in the political arena. She has served as the chairperson of the National Film Development Corporation. In 2012, she was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by the Sir Padampat Singhania University in recognition of her contribution to Indian cinema.
Malini’s passion for Indian culture and dance is evident in her involvement in charitable and social ventures. She received the Sopori Academy of Music And Performing Arts (SaMaPa) Vitasta Award in 2006 for her contribution and service to Indian culture and dance. In 2013, the Government of Andhra Pradesh honored her with the NTR National Award for her outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.
As a public figure and role model, Malini has inspired many with her dedication, talent, and grace. Her journey in the film industry and her achievements have made her an icon in Indian cinema and an influential personality in society.
Awards:
– Filmfare Award for Best Actress for Seeta Aur Geeta (1972)
– Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (2000)
– Filmfare Special Award for 50 Years of Outstanding Contribution to Cinema (2019)
– Padma Shri (2000)
– SaMaPa Vitasta Award (2006)
– NTR National Award for Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema (2013)