In the golden era of Hindi cinema, two of Bollywood’s most celebrated stars—Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini—shared a passionate but ill-fated romance. Their relationship, which blossomed in the early 1970s, was one of the industry’s most talked-about affairs. However, behind the glitz and glamour, their love story faced an unexpected hurdle: Sanjeev Kumar’s orthodox family desired a “stay-at-home wife” and reportedly pressured Hema Malini to quit acting. This clash between tradition and stardom ultimately led to their heartbreaking separation.
As we revisit this throwback Bollywood tale, we explore the real reasons behind their breakup, the impact on their careers, and how both stars moved on—one tragically, and the other into a legendary legacy.
How Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini Fell in Love
The On-Screen Chemistry That Turned Real
Sanjeev Kumar (born Harihar Jethalal Jariwala) and Hema Malini first worked together in Ramesh Sippy’s Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), where their effortless chemistry was evident. Over the next few years, they starred in multiple hits, including:
- Sholay (1975) – Though not paired romantically, their camaraderie was undeniable.
- Dream Girl (1977) – A film that further fueled romance rumors.
By the mid-1970s, the two were unofficially a couple, often spotted at parties and film events together.
Sanjeev Kumar’s Deep Affection for Hema
Sanjeev Kumar, known for his intense acting prowess, was deeply in love with Hema. Reports suggest he proposed marriage multiple times, even gifting her expensive sarees and jewelry. However, despite their strong bond, external pressures soon crept in.
The Breaking Point: Family Wanted Hema to Quit Films
A Clash Between Tradition and Stardom
Hema Malini, already the “Dream Girl” of Bollywood, was at the peak of her career. However, Sanjeev Kumar’s Gujarati family held conservative views and allegedly expected her to leave acting post-marriage.
- Family Pressure: Sources close to the actors revealed that Sanjeev’s family wanted a homemaker, not a leading lady.
- Hema’s Dilemma: She was unwilling to sacrifice her flourishing career, which included starring roles in films like Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, and Dream Girl.
The Heartbreaking Separation
By 1977-78, the relationship began crumbling under these differences. Hema later admitted in interviews that Sanjeev Kumar was one of her dearest friends, but marriage was never destined for them.
Aftermath: How Their Lives Diverged
Sanjeev Kumar’s Tragic Unfulfilled Love
- After the breakup, Sanjeev Kumar never married, though he had brief relationships with Sulakshana Pandit and Nutan.
- He reportedly kept a portrait of Hema Malini in his home until his untimely death in 1985 at age 47 due to heart disease.
Hema Malini’s Marriage to Dharmendra
- In 1980, Hema married Dharmendra, another Bollywood superstar, despite him being already married.
- Unlike Sanjeev’s family, Dharmendra never asked her to quit films, and she continued acting well into the 2000s.
Why This Story Still Resonates
A Reflection of Societal Expectations in the 70s
Their failed romance highlights how traditional family expectations often clashed with the independent lives of actresses in that era. While male stars could marry and continue working, women were frequently pressured to choose between marriage and career.
A Love That Remains Iconic
Decades later, their story remains one of Bollywood’s most poignant “what-if” romances. Fans often wonder:
- What if Sanjeev’s family had accepted Hema’s career?
- Would they have been one of Bollywood’s golden couples?
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Bollywood Legacy
Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini’s love story was cut short not by lack of love, but by societal norms. While Hema went on to build a legendary career and family, Sanjeev Kumar’s life ended too soon, leaving behind unfulfilled dreams.
Their tale serves as a reminder of how love, no matter how deep, sometimes isn’t enough against rigid traditions—especially in an era when women’s ambitions were often sidelined.
Sourashis Chanda brings readers their unique perspective on Business, Economy, Health and Fitness. With a background in Health and Physical Fitness of 2years, I am dedicated to exploring [what they aim to achieve with their writing, on the sustainable Economy of the country, various pro tips about business, latest goverment news, with some tips in health are and Fitness.
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
- Sourashis Chandahttps://indiatadkha.com/author/sourashis/
