Hema Malini is an evergreen star. While the actress has not been seen on screen for years now, she is not one to be forgotten. In the 1970s and 1980s, Hema Malini charmed the audience with her performances on screen, earning the title of 'Dream Girl'. As the actor turns a year older on October 16, let's have a look at some of the exceptional characters of her golden career
Updated On: 2025-10-16 11:15 AM IST
Compiled by : Athulya Nambiar
Baghban (2003) – Pooja Malhotra
In her mature years, Hema played a devoted wife and mother neglected by her grown children. Her graceful, restrained performance opposite Amitabh Bachchan touched hearts and highlighted her enduring screen presence
Meera (1979) – Meera Bai
A soulful portrayal of the 16th-century saint-poet Meera, who dedicates her life to Krishna. Hema delivered a serene, spiritual performance, earning critical acclaim for its depth and authenticity
Lal Patthar (1971) – Saudamini
A complex role where Hema played a proud and possessive courtesan who becomes the wife of a zamindar. Her performance showcased intense emotions, jealousy, and tragic vulnerability
Satte Pe Satta (1982) – Indu
Opposite Amitabh Bachchan, Hema played the sophisticated and kind-hearted Indu, who reforms her husband and his six unruly brothers. Her warmth and maturity added emotional grounding to the film’s comic chaos
Seeta Aur Geeta (1972) – Seeta / Geeta
A career-defining double role where Hema portrayed twin sisters with contrasting personalities — the timid Seeta and the feisty Geeta. Her comic timing, emotional range, and effortless switch between roles won her the Filmfare Best Actress Award
Dream Girl (1977) – Sapna / Padma / Champabai / Dream Girl
The title that gave her her nickname. Hema played multiple avatars as a mysterious woman trying to survive by taking on different identities. Her glamour and emotional depth made this role unforgettable
Ek Chadar Maili Si (1986) – Rano
In a powerful, deglamorized role, Hema played a Punjabi widow forced to marry her brother-in-law. It was one of her most mature, realistic performances, earning her critical acclaim for depth and restraint
Razia Sultan (1983) – Razia
Hema played India’s first woman ruler with regal dignity and emotional strength. Her portrayal of Razia’s forbidden love and political power struggles was both bold and nuanced
Sholay (1975) – Basanti
As the chirpy, talkative tangewali, Basanti became an iconic character. Hema’s infectious energy, rustic charm, and chemistry with Dharmendra made Basanti one of Hindi cinema’s most loved heroines.
The Burning Train (1980) – Seema
In this ensemble disaster thriller, Hema stood out with her natural performance as a woman caught in crisis, showcasing courage and emotional strength
Prem Nagar (1974) – Lata
As a woman who reforms a reckless prince (Rajesh Khanna), Hema brought quiet dignity and emotional balance, making this romantic drama a hit
