Revisit 10 iconic films of Dharmendra-Hema Malini that defined the golden couple's romance and legacy

Veteran actor Dharmendra's passing away on November 24, 2025, marks a captivating chapter in Indian cinema coming to an end. His collaboration with the 'Dream Girl' and his wife, Hema Malini, perhaps best defined his prolific career. Their onscreen chemistry, which began in the 1970s' Tum Haseen Main Jawaan and continued to flourish in nearly 30 films, was more than just a performance; it was an intense, tangible energy that went beyond the screen and ultimately led to their marriage in real life. This legendary pair broke new ground in the box office with their seamless transitions between raucous action, breezy romance, and dramatic flair. The films they starred in together showcase their magnetic personalities and the enchantment they could create as a couple, solidifying their status as Bollywood's most iconic romantic duo.

For Hindi movie romantic collaborations, the classic pairing of Dharmendra and Hema Malini stands head and shoulders above the others. Hema Malini became the picture of beauty and elegance, while Dharmendra became famous for his gruff charisma and acting chops. When these two legends came together, it was sure to be a hit at the box office and a sensation across the country. Together, they have a filmography that covers every genre of Bollywood from the 1970s and 1980s. Whether it was the touching, multi-layered love stories that reflected their real-life blooming romance or the humorous bickering between Basanti and Veeru, each film served as a distinct showcase for their evolving dynamics.

Embrace the timeless royal duo of Indian cinema, Dharmendra and Hema Malini, by reliving their most iconic and lucrative films.

Sholay (1975) - Prime Video (subscribers of OTTplay Premium will also be able to watch the film with a top-up)

Widely considered one of the greatest Indian films ever made, Sholay showcases Dharmendra as Veeru, the fun-loving, charismatic rogue, and Hema Malini as Basanti, the talkative and spirited village girl who drives a tonga (horse-drawn carriage). Their relationship is central to the film's love plotline, which revolves around Veeru's legendary "Basanti, don't dance in front of these dogs" scene and his infamously dramatic efforts to court her. Their natural chemistry, which included humour and love, made them an iconic couple.

ALSO READ: Veteran actor Dharmendra passes away at 89 in Mumbai

Pratiggya (1975) - YouTube

Classic slapstick comedy meets the classic revenge story in this film. The film stars Dharmendra as Ajit Singh, a truck driver who is illiterate and discovers that his family was killed by the vicious bandit Bharat Thakur. In Dinapur, the dacoit's village, Ajit pretends to be a police officer while swearing revenge. The independent niece of a dacoit, Radha (Hema Malini), hates her uncle's illegal lifestyle but rallies behind Ajit's cause. This box office smash capitalises on Dharmendra's magnetic chemistry with Hema Malini's strong-willed character while deftly combining his 'He-Man' action persona with humorous, situational comedy.

Sharafat (1970) - YouTube

This was one of their earlier collaborations when Dharmendra plays Rajesh, a sensitive and principled college professor who takes on the difficult task of rehabilitating a group of fallen women, and Hema Malini is featured as Paro, one of the women he seeks to reform. Their onscreen romance takes a more solemn, reflective turn in this social drama, which explores issues of social prejudice and reform; it gently sets the ground for the intense emotional bond they would show in subsequent hits.

Dil Kaa Heera (1979)

Dharmendra plays the role of Rajat Sharma, a customs officer, in this criminal drama, and Hema Malini stars opposite him in the film that investigates the intricacies of duty, criminality, and personal connections. Despite being a lesser-known film in their vast joint résumé, it demonstrates how popular their combination was in the 1970s and how well they carried varied genres.

Dillagi (1978)

In the role of Swarn Kamal, a mild-mannered Sanskrit professor, Dharmendra plays against his usual action image in this unforgettable romantic comedy. Hema Malini portrays Phoolrenu, a dynamic and contemporary chemistry professor. The comedy, stemming from the disparity between their personalities and professions, brings their charming and carefree courtship to life. In a completely romantic-comedy setting, it gave viewers a new perspective on their chemistry.

The Burning Train (1980)

This was a major ensemble disaster film. Dharmendra plays Ashok Singh, one of the engineers involved in the high-speed train that catches fire, and Hema Malini plays his love interest. As a character, they contribute to the dramatic tapestry of people struggling for life. The film's multi-starrer thriller relied on their combined star power to establish one of its primary emotional storylines.

Seeta Aur Geeta (1972)

Playing the contrasting roles of shy Seeta and feisty, street-savvy Geeta, Hema Malini solidified her status as the "Dream Girl," and the film was a huge financial success. The fearless street artist Raka, played by Dharmendra, falls for the fearless and gregarious Geeta. He proved once again how popular the pairing was at the movie office by playing the heroic opposite of Hema Malini, creating an enjoyable blend of comedy, action, and romance.

Tum Haseen Main Jawan (1970) - Prime Video (subscribers of OTTplay Premium will also be able to watch the film with a top-up)

This is a significant film in their joint history, as it is widely cited as the first time Dharmendra and Hema Malini worked together as the lead pair, which directly led to the blossoming of their real-life romance. The film's plot, which starred Dharmendra as Sunil and Hema Malini as the female lead, adhered to a traditional romance formula that made full use of the newfound chemistry between the two actors.

Dost (1974) - Eros Now

Dharmendra portrays the character Manav, and Hema Malini plays the role of the woman who enters his life. The plot revolves around friendship, sacrifice, and love. The film's commercial success once again proved Dharmendra and Hema Malini to be a marketable pair in a big Bollywood production, allowing their romantic-dramatic chemistry to thrive in a more emotional narrative framework.

Jugnu (1973)

Dharmendra stars as Jugnu, a charming and cunning burglar who is recognised for his quick thinking and ability to elude the authorities in this action-packed drama. His romantic interest, played by Hema Malini, becomes involved in his exciting, high-stakes universe. With the help of Hema Malini, the story was able to keep a vital and beloved romantic thread alive throughout all the drama and suspense, capitalising on Dharmendra's magnetic screen presence and his rising reputation as an action star.