Hema Malini faces backlash for refusing selfie with a fan during Navratri, netizens say, "itna ghamand acha nahi"

Hema Malini faces backlash for refusing selfie with a fan during Navratri, netizens say, "itna ghamand acha nahi"

Navratri celebrations across the country often see the presence of Bollywood stars at various cultural events. This year, veteran actor and BJP MP Hema Malini made headlines, not for her festive appearance, but for her refusal to pose for a selfie with a fan during an event in Uttar Pradesh. A short video capturing the incident has gone viral, sparking a debate on social media over celebrity boundaries and fan entitlement.

In the video, Hema Malini is seen as the guest of honour at the Navratri function. A fan standing close to her tried to capture a picture, requesting her to smile for the camera. The actor gave a quick glance but immediately turned her face away, leaving the fan visibly disappointed. Within hours, the clip circulated widely online and drew a flurry of comments.

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Several netizens criticised her attitude, calling her “arrogant” and “rude.” One user wrote, “Why attend public events if you can’t interact with fans?” Another compared her to fellow actor Jaya Bachchan, saying, “She is Jaya Bachchan’s copy when it comes to attitude.” Others went further, questioning the purpose of her public appearances if she was unwilling to acknowledge her admirers.
On the other hand, many defended her stance.

Supporters argued that celebrities too deserve personal space and shouldn’t be forced into uncomfortable situations. One user commented, “First ask before taking someone’s photo. This is basic etiquette.” Actress Sunita Rajwar also came to Hema Malini’s support, writing, “Why do people want to get clicked like this with no respect? An actor is a human being, not a prop.”

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This incident has once again raised questions about the fine line between public figures and personal boundaries. While fans feel entitled to a moment with their idols, stars often struggle with constant invasions of privacy. For someone like Hema Malini, who has been in the public eye for over five decades, the expectation to always smile and pose may sometimes feel overwhelming.

Known as Bollywood’s “Dream Girl,” Hema Malini has delivered iconic performances in films like Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta and Satte Pe Satta. Currently serving as a BJP MP from Mathura, she has largely stepped away from films. Recently, when asked about returning to the big screen, she laughed off the idea, saying that today’s films don’t suit her and would need to be made differently for her to “fit in.”