Here's why Dharmendra initially opposed Hema Malini's political career
In a recent interview, veteran actor and politician Hema Malini revealed her husband-actor Dharmendra's initial disapproval of her political aspirations. She is currently contesting the Lok Sabha Elections for the third time under Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) banner from Mathura. "Dharamji didn't like it. He told me not to contest election as it's a very difficult task," she shared, adding that his primary concern was her safety amid juggling film and politics.
'I thought let me take it as a challenge'
Speaking with News18, Malini discussed her husband's initial reluctance. "He said, 'I have experienced that.' So when he said that it's a difficult task, I thought let me take it as a challenge." "When you are a film star working in politics, people have a lot of craze about you and want to approach you and you can imagine the craze people had about Dharamji. So it used to trouble him." "I also face such problems," Malini added.
Dharmendra's own political career may have influenced his concerns
Interestingly, Dharmendra himself had a brief political career as a BJP representative for Bikaner, Rajasthan from 2004 to 2009. His infrequent attendance at Parliament sessions due to film commitments and personal obligations drew criticism. This experience likely contributed to his concerns about Malini managing both her film career and political responsibilities, with her safety being his primary worry. Work-wise, the 88-year-old actor was recently seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.
Malini credited late actor Vinod Khanna with guiding her
Meanwhile, Malini warmly recalled how late Vinod Khanna mentored her during election campaigns. "I was inspired by Vinod Khanna because he took me with him for his election campaign. He taught me a lot, how to give a speech, how to face the public," she said. Khanna was a BJP member who served four terms as MP from Gurdaspur and held significant positions including Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture, and Minister of State for External Affairs.
When Malini hinted at her daughter's inclination to join politics
In a previous interview, Malini hinted at the potential entry of her daughter Esha Deol into politics. When asked about the possibility of her next generation entering politics, Malini stated, "If she wants." "She is very much inclined to that. She likes to do it. So maybe in the next few years, if she is interested, she will definitely join politics," stated the actor-turned-politician.
