Hema Malini's Journey Back to Acting in Baghban

In a revealing interview, Hema Malini shares her initial hesitation to accept the role in the beloved film Baghban. After a decade away from acting, she was encouraged by her mother to embrace the opportunity. The film, which features Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan, tells a poignant story of family and neglect. Discover the insights behind her decision and the film's enduring legacy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 10, 2026, 22:26 IST

Hema Malini's Hesitation Over Baghban Role

Ravi Chopra's 2003 film Baghban has become a beloved classic among audiences. Featuring stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Salman Khan, and Mahima Chaudhry, the movie has garnered a dedicated fanbase. Interestingly, Hema Malini almost declined the role due to uncertainties about her character. It was her mother, Jaya Chakravarthy, whose encouraging words prompted her to accept the offer. At that time, Hema had paused her acting career to focus on her daughters, Esha and Aahana Deol.

Hema Malini's Return to the Silver Screen

In a conversation with Zoom, Hema Malini shared her thoughts on returning to acting after nearly ten years. She reminisced, "I was married, and my daughters were young. My life revolved around them and their schooling. It was during this phase that I was approached for Baghban." She added, "Initially, I was hesitant about taking on the role of a mother to grown sons after such a long break. I wondered, Kaisa lagega [How will it look?]. My mother advised me that if Amitabh ji is part of the film, I should embrace the opportunity. As an actress, I should explore diverse roles. Her encouragement led me to accept the role, and I am grateful I did."

Several actresses had previously turned down the part, where she would portray the mother of four adult sons played by Aman Verma, Samir Soni, Saahil Chadha, and Nasir Khan. Hema felt reassured after learning that the script was a favorite of the legendary filmmaker BR Chopra and that his son, Ravi Chopra, would be directing. Once Ravi elaborated on her character as a loving mother and wife, she felt more at ease with her decision.

Plot Overview of Baghban

The film follows Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini as Raj and Pooja Malhotra, a couple who devote their lives to their children. However, as the children grow up, they begin to neglect their parents, ultimately separating them under the pretext that they cannot care for them together after Raj's retirement. It is Salman Khan's character, Alok, an orphan raised by Raj, who steps in to ensure that his adoptive parents are well cared for. The soundtrack of Baghban, composed by the late Aadesh Shrivastava, also became immensely popular.