Hema Malini, the veteran actress, became emotional while paying tribute to her late husband, Dharmendra, at the opening of the 'Lens & Legacy: Bollywood in Focus' exhibition at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai. Reflecting on Dharmendra's legacy, she stated, 'This tribute is not just a recognition of his contribution to the film industry, but also of his journey, marked by so much passion, dedication, and immense love for the audience.' She recalled his belief that 'Film is a way to connect with the heart' and acknowledged the profound impact he had on millions through his performances. Malini, visibly shaken, admitted that she misses him dearly and is uncertain about how she will cope without him, saying, 'He was a great man... I don't know how I am going to cope with the rest of my life.' Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. The couple starred in iconic films together, including 'Sholay' and 'Seeta Aur Geeta.' Following his death, a prayer meeting hosted by the Deol family in Mumbai drew numerous celebrities from the film industry, while others visited Malini to offer their condolences.