Over the years, Mumbaikars have known them as Hema Maliniit’s a bungalow. The famous apartment, which is often included in the famous house tour along with Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Mannat’ and Salman Khan’s Galaxy Apartments, has quietly witnessed the amazing journey of the actor in film, dance and family life. Now, Esha Deol has opened the doors to the historic property, giving fans an intimate look inside the building where art, culture and countless memories live.In a recent YouTube video with Curly Tales, Esha shared fascinating details about the 54-year-old home, revealing everything from the meaning of her newfound name to the special dance floor, family and fond memories.
Why Hema Malini’s famous bungalow is now called ‘Advitya ‘
Despite being one of the most famous buildings in Mumbai, the bungalow surprisingly did not have an official name for many years. According to Esha, everyone just calls it Hema Malini’s house.Recently this house received its recognition when the spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar He called it ‘Advitiya’, a Sanskrit word that means “special” or “mystery.” Esha explained that the name perfectly reflects the house that has preserved the memories of many generations and celebrates art, spirituality and family traditions.He said that Hema Malini has lived in the house since she moved to Mumbai, making it one of the oldest houses with its first owner.
Every corner celebrates Hema Malini’s dance
One of the most interesting features of this building is its close connection with ancient Indian dance. Even before entering the main area, visitors are greeted by bronze sculptures depicting ancient mud dancers, which immediately show Hema Malini’s life’s dedication to this art.The large ballroom serves as a professional training studio with specially designed wooden floors, allowing up to 30 dancers to practice together. According to Esha, her mother continues to practice there regularly, dancing not just as a job, but as an important part of everyday life.He also revealed that shoes are prohibited inside the dance hall as a sign of respect for the art.
A house rebuilt after the floods in Mumbai
Although the building has existed for more than fifty years, it underwent major changes after the Mumbai floods of 2005, which severely damaged the original building.The bungalow was rebuilt into a multi-roomed house, with separate living quarters for different members of the family, including Hema Malini, Esha Deol and her sister. Each level reflects the personality and lifestyle of the resident while maintaining the warmth of a single family.
Two kitchens under one roof
One of the more unusual features of this home is its unique kitchen layout. Esha revealed that Hema Malini, who follows a vegetarian lifestyle, has her own kitchen where no one is allowed to cook. The rest of the family uses the slow cooker to cook non-vegetarian meals, especially for Esha’s children and other family members.These arrangements ensure that everyone’s favorite foods are respected without compromising Hema Malini’s beliefs and practices.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini the story of love is inside the house
Perhaps the most touching part of the house is the open space dedicated to Hema Malini and Dharmendra. The center features cushions with photos of the couple, reminding them of their enduring relationship.According to Esha, the house quietly witnessed her parents’ fame and their beautiful love story over the years.The building also has an office full of precious memorabilia, including fan-made paintings, photo albums, sketches and memorabilia from Hema Malini’s legendary film career. Among them are vintage memorabilia like ‘Razia Sultan’, as well as handmade gifts from admirers over the years.
More than a popular place to live
While many tourists know this place as one of the famous places in Mumbai, Esha believes that ‘Advitiya’ stands for much more than that. It is a historical account of Hema Malini’s artistic journey, keeping her devotion to dance, her family’s legacy and many memorable years under one roof.Through the house tour, Esha gave a rare glimpse into the home where cinema, culture and family continue to coexist, making ‘Advitiya’ one of the most iconic places in the city.