Veteran Bollywood actress Hema Malini turns a year older today. In a career spanning over five decades, the Dream Girl of Bollywood has delivered several iconic films and characters that impressed many. With her prolific body of work and timeless beauty and grace, it is not surprising that she enjoys a massive fan following. However, do you know that Hema Malini herself was a huge fan of the Bollywood superstar Raaj Kumar?
Before marrying her co-star Dharmendra, Hema Malini was proposed by several stars including Jeetendra, Sanjeev Kumar and Raaj Kumar. However, she rejected everyone, including Raaj, whom she was smitten by.
As per reports, Raaj Kumar fell in love with the actress at first sight and suggested her name to the makers of Lal Patthar. Upon his suggestion, Vyjayanthimala was reportedly replaced by Hema Malini.
After the release of the film, the actor proposed to her for marriage, however, the latter turned down the proposal. Following this, Raaj Kumar married Jennifer Pandit and Hema Malini tied the knot to Dharmendra.
