Hema Malini, the iconic actor and politician, continues to maintain a remarkably fit and active lifestyle at the age of 77. Her longevity and wellness are credited to her disciplined daily routine, balanced diet, and mindful lifestyle choices, which she shared in a 2008 interview with The Telegraph.

Morning Routine and Diet

Hema begins her day with a cup of tea, limiting herself to only two cups per day. She emphasizes the importance of boiled milk infused with saffron (kesar) for her tea and pairs it with crisp Marie biscuits. Breakfast typically consists of idlis, a staple in South Indian cuisine, while she avoids fried foods such as vadas. On Sundays, she indulges in paneer paratha accompanied by plain curd.

Fasting is an integral part of her routine. She observes fasts on Mondays for Lord Shiva and on Fridays for divine goddesses such as Durga or Lakshmi. During these fasts, her meals are light, including two small pieces of unsalted paneer, bananas, and a glass of orange juice.

Preference for South Indian and Gujarati Cuisine

Hema Malini has expressed a particular fondness for South Indian and Gujarati foods. She enjoys dishes like rasam, a spicy, tangy South Indian soup, and kadis. Her diet avoids combining chapatis with rice in the same meal, adhering to a principle of balance and moderation. She often carries her own lunch when shooting, ensuring that her meals align with her dietary preferences.

Pure Vegetarian Lifestyle

Hailing from an orthodox Iyenger family, Hema Malini follows a strictly vegetarian diet. She abstains from non-vegetarian foods and incorporates wholesome vegetarian dishes into her daily meals. She enjoys homemade Gujarati dishes prepared by her family, including various kadis and vegetables. Even during fasting, she opts for boiled vegetables without salt and a bowl of fresh fruit salad, ensuring her nutrition remains adequate.

Fitness Practices Beyond Diet

Hema’s fitness is not only about her diet. She actively practices yoga, dances regularly, and meditates, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual wellness into her lifestyle. Her dedication to these routines over decades has helped her maintain flexibility, energy, and a youthful physique.

Balanced Approach to Food and Wellness

Hema Malini emphasizes moderation, mindful eating, and the benefits of fasting. She balances indulgences, like paneer paratha on Sundays, with lighter meals and disciplined fasting schedules. Her approach is rooted in traditional dietary habits while incorporating the health benefits of vegetarianism and South Indian cuisine.

Key Takeaways

Hema Malini’s longevity and fitness at 77 highlight the impact of consistent discipline, mindful dietary choices, and regular physical activity. Her lifestyle is a blend of traditional Indian dietary practices, vegetarianism, periodic fasting, and a commitment to yoga, meditation, and dance. Her routine serves as a model for holistic health, demonstrating that age need not limit vitality and wellness.