From the India Today archives (1976) | The rise of Hema Malini

At the age of 16, Hema Malini faced rejection from her debut film project, only to be later rescued by Raj Kapoor, who helped shape her into the iconic "Dream Girl" of Indian cinema. According to reports, filmmaker CV Sridhar initially signed her for a film, renaming her Sujata. He reportedly criticized her appearance during a photo session, leading to her dismissal from the project. The incident left her and her family deeply upset. Sridhar’s decision to drop Hema came shortly after she was asked to wear a saree for a photoshoot, which she felt made her look unattractive. Following this, he publicly stated that she would never become a star. This rejection marked a low point in her early career, but fortune soon turned in her favor. A new opportunity arose when producer B Ananthaswami approached Hema for a film directed by Raj Kapoor. She attended a screen test at RK Studios, where she impressed the filmmaker. During the session, Raj Kapoor praised her potential, declaring her the "next superstar of Indian cinema." His endorsement led to her being cast in Sapno Ka Saudagar, marking her debut in Bollywood. Despite the age difference, Hema was 16 while Raj was 44, the promotional materials highlighted their on-screen romance, with some posters humorously noting the disparity. Hema found the publicity campaign amusing, yet it solidified her status as the "Dream Girl." Her debut film did not immediately bring critical acclaim, but it set the stage for her rising fame. By the time Sapno Ka Saudagar was released, Hema had already signed up for five other projects, signaling her emergence as a prominent figure in the industry. In the years following her debut, Hema Malini continued to dominate the silver screen, becoming one of the highest-paid actresses in Hindi cinema. While her acting abilities were sometimes questioned, her presence on screen remained compelling. Over time, she expanded her repertoire beyond conventional roles, showcasing her versatility in various films. More recently, Hema has shifted focus from acting to politics, stepping away from the film industry. Nevertheless, she continues to engage in cultural activities, performing at dance recitals nationwide. Her journey from a rejected debutante to a celebrated icon reflects both resilience and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema.