Celebrate Dharmendra and Hema Malini's love story with these classics on OTT

The enchanting "Dream Girl" Hema Malini and Bollywood's "He-Man" Dharmendra were married in the summer of 1980, permanently cementing one of the most beloved love stories in Indian cinema. On May 2, 2025, the couple is celebrating 45 years of marriage. Fans all over the globe are celebrating this long-lasting romance, which blossomed on and off screen, creating cinematic magic as it went.

The story of these two goes beyond surface level; it encompasses the spectacular dance routines, iconic performances, legendary language, and electric chemistry that were featured in some of the most memorable films of Hindi cinema. 

This is a nostalgic look at some of the most cherished films starring Dharmendra and Hema Malini, who together made an unforgettable impression on Indian cinema.

Dream Girl (1977) - Prime Video & ShemarooMe (OTTplay Premium)

This romantic comedy featuring Hema Malini in numerous roles captivated viewers, showcasing her versatility and further cementing her link with the label "Dream Girl." Once again cast opposite her, Dharmendra's characteristic honesty and charisma grounded the show's fanciful idea in genuine emotion. They clearly had a strong bond that extended far beyond the realm of written exchanges, as their ease on screen was palpable.

Dillagi (1978)

Dillagi was a hidden treasure that took place within the confines of a university; it starred Dharmendra as a Sanskrit professor and Hema as a strict chemistry instructor. There was a lot of subtle emotion, charm, and discomfort in their slow-burning affair. They weren't playing their typical high-octane parts, and maybe that was part of what made it unique. One of the most heartfelt depictions of love in their career, Dillagi, has minimal drama but maximum emotion.

Dil Kaa Heera (1979)

The emotional weight of Dil Kaa Heera makes it stand out, even though it isn't as famous as their hits. The film examined issues of trust, perseverance, and sacrifice via the characters of Dharmendra, a man profoundly in love, and Hema, a woman entangled in challenging circumstances. Like the relationship they were developing in real life, their performances reflected maturity, restraint, and emotion.

Sholay (1975) - Prime Video

In honour of Dharmendra and Hema Malini, Sholay must be mentioned. Dharmendra portrayed the charming renegade Veeru in Ramesh Sippy's action epic, which is a towering classic in every way. Basanti, played by the talkative and courageous tonga driver Hema Malini, became an immediate fan favourite. Infused with comedy, mischief, and unforgettable one-liners, their courtship added a touch of lightheartedness to the dark tale of revenge. The line "Basanti, inn kutton ke saamne mat nachna" is still a tribute to Dharmendra's comic timing and their infectious chemistry, making it one of the most repeated lines in Bollywood.

Seeta Aur Geeta (1972) - Prime Video & JioHotstar

Dharmendra and Hema Malini's Seeta Aur Geeta was a blockbuster before the wedding ever happened, showcasing Hema's dual-role acting chops and Dharmendra's comic timing. The feisty Geeta from Hema complemented Dharmendra's sympathetic and charming performance as the strong-willed Raka. They captured a wonderful tension in their moments together, which hinted at the off-screen bond already beginning to build, and it was both tender and funny.

Pratiggya (1975) - YouTube

Dulal Guha directed this action-comedy, which starred Dharmendra as a truck driver on a quest to do justice while hiding his identity. Hema Malini brought the ideal blend of purity and passion to her role as his romantic interest. With their witty banter intercut with the village drama, the story took a delightful turn for the lighter side. One of Dharmendra's funniest performances was in the film, demonstrating that the duo could pull off humour, as well as romance.

The Burning Train (1980) - Prime Video & JioHotstar

A high-stakes drama about survival on a deadly train, The Burning Train featured an ensemble cast of actors. The emotional anchor to the story was brought to life by Dharmendra and Hema, even though they didn't spend much screen time together. Fans view the film with additional sentimental worth since it was released the same year they tied the knot, marking their move from onscreen to offscreen companions.