Hema Malini, the “Dream Girl”, was more than just a decorative actress. She shattered stereotypes as a strong, versatile performer. She portrayed alluring yet no-nonsense roles, from playing a fearless tonga driver in ‘Sholay’ (1975) to bringing multiple layers of emotion to the dual roles in ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’. She pioneered the way for cinematic female protagonists, enjoying the chance to combine elegance, comedy, and action in mainstream Hindi cinema.