For decades, Mumbaikars have known it simply as: Hema Malinibungalow. The iconic residence, which is often included in celebrity home tours along with Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Mannat’ and Salman Khan’s Galaxy Apartments, has quietly witnessed the legendary actor’s remarkable journey in cinema, dance and family life. now, Esha Deol: opens the doors of the historic property, offering fans an intimate look inside the home where art, culture and countless memories coexist.In a recent YouTube video with Curly Tales, Esha shared fascinating details about the 54-year-old residence, revealing everything from the meaning behind the newly acquired name to the unique spaces dedicated to dance, family and cherished memories.
Why Hema Malini’s iconic bungalow is now called ‘Advitya ‘
Despite being one of Mumbai’s best-known celebrity homes, the bungalow surprisingly didn’t have an official name for decades. According to Esha, everyone just calls it Hema Malini’s house.It was only recently that the residence received its identity when a spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar it is named ‘Advitiya’, a Sanskrit word that translates to “unique” or “mystic.” Esha explained that the name perfectly reflects a home that preserves generations of memories while celebrating art, spirituality and family traditions.He also shared that Hema Malini has lived in the house since moving to Mumbai, making it one of the oldest artist residences still occupied by its original owner.
Every corner celebrates Hema Malini’s passion for dance
One of the most striking aspects of the house is its deep connection with Indian classical dance. Even before entering the main residence, visitors are greeted by bronze sculptures depicting the mudras of classical dance, which immediately reflect Hema Malini’s lifelong dedication to art.The spacious living room doubles as a professional rehearsal studio with a specially designed wooden floor, allowing around 30 dancers to practice together. According to Esha, her mother continued to rehearse there regularly, considering dance not just a profession but an important part of everyday life.He also revealed that shoes are strictly prohibited inside the dance hall as a sign of respect for the art form.
A house rebuilt after the floods in Mumbai
Although the property has stood for more than five decades, it underwent a major transformation after the devastating Mumbai floods of 2005, which severely damaged the original structure.The bungalow has since been rebuilt into a multi-storey residence, with separate floors thought to be designed for different family members, including Hema Malini, Esha Deol and her sister. Each level reflects the personality and lifestyle of its individual occupants while maintaining the warmth of a family home.
Two kitchens under one roof
Among the lesser-known details about the residence is the unique arrangement of the kitchen. Esha revealed that Hema Malini, who follows a strict vegetarian lifestyle, has her own private kitchen where no one else is allowed to cook. The rest of the family uses a separate kitchen to prepare non-vegetarian meals, especially for Esha’s children and other family members.The arrangement ensures that everyone’s dietary preferences are respected without interfering with Hema Malini’s personal beliefs and routine.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini The love story is alive inside the house
Perhaps the most emotional corner of the residence is a comfortable chair dedicated to Hema Malini and Dharmendra. The space features personalized pillows with photos of the couple, serving as a reminder of their enduring bond.According to Esha, the house has silently witnessed the extraordinary stardom of her parents and their beautiful love story for decades.The residence also has an office full of treasured memorabilia, including fan-made artwork, framed photos, paintings and memorabilia from Hema Malini’s illustrious film career. These include memorabilia from classics like ‘Razia Sultan’, along with handmade gifts presented by admirers over the years.
More than just a popular place to live
While many visitors know the property as one of Mumbai’s famous landmarks, Esha believes that ‘Advitiya’ represents much more than that. It is a living archive of Hema Malini’s artistic journey, preserving her devotion to dance, her family legacy and decades of unforgettable memories under one roof.Through a tour of the house, Esha offers a unique glimpse of a home where cinema, culture and family continue to exist in perfect harmony, making ‘Advitiya’ one of the most meaningful artists’ homes in the city.