Veteran actor Hema Malini has shared that she is not yet emotionally ready to watch Ikkis, the final film of her late husband, legendary actor Dharmendra. In a heartfelt interview with Screen, Hema revealed that the thought of seeing Dharmendra on screen so soon after his passing remains overwhelming, and she plans to view the film only when the pain begins to heal.

Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89 at his Mumbai residence. He had been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital earlier that month following a health scare and was recuperating at home when he breathed his last. The actor was cremated the following day, November 25, 2025. Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, serves as a tribute to Second Lieutenant Arun Khetpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. The film features Agastya Nanda in the lead role, alongside Simar Bhatia, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Dharmendra in what became his last on-screen appearance.

When asked if she had watched Ikkis since its release, Hema responded, “I came to Mathura when it was released. I have to do my work here. Also, I can’t see it now; it will be too overwhelming. That’s what my daughters are also saying. Maybe I will watch it later when the wounds start healing.” Her words reflect the deep personal grief she continues to navigate, even as she fulfills her professional commitments in Mathura, where she serves as a Member of Parliament.

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Hema also addressed persistent media speculation about a family rift, which had gained traction after two separate prayer meetings were held in Dharmendra’s honor following his demise. One was organized by his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol on November 27, 2025, in Mumbai, attended by industry stalwarts including Salman Khan and Amitabh Bachchan. On the same day, Hema Malini and her daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, held a separate prayer meet at her residence. Dismissing the rumors, Hema said, “It has always been very nice and cordial. Even today it is very nice. I don’t know why people think something is wrong with us. It is because people want gossip.” She emphasized the closeness within the family and expressed disappointment that people were exploiting their grief for headlines, stating, “We are absolutely happy and very close to each other. That’s it. I don’t have anything more to say about this.”

Dharmendra is survived by his two wives: Prakash Kaur, whom he married in 1954 and with whom he had four children, including Sunny and Bobby Deol, and Hema Malini, whom he married in 1980 and with whom he has two daughters, Esha and Ahana. Hema’s poignant reflections highlight the enduring love she shared with Dharmendra while underscoring the private nature of her healing process amid public scrutiny. As the family continues to grieve, her decision to postpone watching Ikkis stands as a touching testament to the depth of their bond.

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