The passing of the legendary Dharmendra on November 24, 2025—just shy of his 90th birthday—left a void in the heart of Indian cinema that may never truly be filled. As the nation mourned the "He-Man" of Bollywood, the spotlight inevitably shifted toward the dynamics of his sprawling family. Amidst whispers of internal discord and separate memorial services, Hema Malini has finally stepped forward to clarify the state of her relationship with Sunny and Bobby Deol, while sharing a poignant update on her husband’s final cinematic work.

Addressing the Rumors: A Family Bound by Respect

In the wake of Dharmendra's demise, social media was flooded with speculation regarding a rift between his two families. These rumors gained momentum when Sunny and Bobby Deol organized a prayer meet at a Mumbai hotel, while Hema Malini conducted a private Gita Paath at her residence on the same day.

Breaking her silence, Hema Malini emphasized that different mourning rituals do not equate to a lack of unity. She expressed that the bond she shares with Sunny and Bobby is built on mutual respect. While they lead separate lives with distinct traditions, the love for their father remains a common thread. The separate gatherings, including her subsequent prayer meet in Delhi with daughters Esha and Ahana, were simply a way for each side of the family to process their immense grief in their own personal space.

The Emotional Weight of 'Ikkis'

One of the most talked-about topics is Dharmendra’s final film appearance in the war drama Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan. While the film is being hailed as a fitting tribute to the veteran actor's career, Hema Malini revealed that she has not yet been able to bring herself to watch it.

Honoring the Legacy of the "He-Man"

Dharmendra was more than just a superstar; he was a cultural icon who balanced rugged masculinity with a soft, poetic heart. Hema Malini reflected on his final days, noting that he remained passionate about cinema and his farm until the very end.