Filmmaker Subhash Ghai has recalled an emotional moment at Whistling Woods International, where veteran actress Hema Malini paid tribute to her late husband and legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra.
Sharing photographs from the occasion on Instagram, Ghai described the event as a memorable celebration of cinema made more meaningful by Hema Malini’s presence and the heartfelt tribute to the late actor. He said an audiovisual presentation prepared by students of the film institute moved those present as they remembered Dharmendra’s immense contribution to Indian cinema.
“It was a great day to celebrate cinema at Whistling Woods International when Hema Malini ji came personally to pay tribute to Mr Dharmendra — a HE-man of Indian cinema. An unforgettable actor and a man we all loved. Yesterday, we all got emotional with his AV made by students of Whistling Woods,” Ghai wrote.
The filmmaker also shared a photograph with Hema Malini alongside a portrait of Dharmendra, capturing the poignant moment at the institute.
Dharmendra died on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89 at his Mumbai residence after battling age-related health issues. His death marked the loss of one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated stars, whose career spanned several decades.
Hema Malini has previously spoken about the encouragement and support she received from her husband throughout her career. In an earlier conversation with IANS, the Sholay actress recalled how Dharmendra urged her to remain active and continue pursuing her interests, including dance performances, regardless of how many films she was doing.
“He was always very encouraging and inspiring by the fact that I was constantly performing or keeping myself engaged in one activity or another. He genuinely appreciated it and would always say, ‘Just keep doing all of this. Don’t stop,’” she said.
Her tribute at Whistling Woods International offered another moment of remembrance for the actor, whose legacy continues to resonate with colleagues, students and generations of film lovers.
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