For decades, Mumbaikars have known it simply as Hema Malini‘s bungalow. The iconic residence, often included on celebrity home tours alongside 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 has opened the doors to 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 its newly acquired name to the unique spaces dedicated to dance, family and cherished memories.
Why Hema Malini’s iconic bungalow is now called ‘Advitiya‘
Despite being one of Mumbai’s most recognisable celebrity homes, the bungalow surprisingly had no official name for decades. According to Esha, everyone simply referred to it as Hema Malini’s house.Only recently did the residence receive its identity when spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar named it ‘Advitiya’, a Sanskrit word that translates to “unique” or “mystic.” Esha explained that the name perfectly reflects a home that has preserved generations of memories while celebrating art, spirituality and family traditions.She also shared that Hema Malini has lived in the house ever since moving to Mumbai, making it one of the oldest celebrity residences still occupied by its original owner.
Every corner celebrates Hema Malini’s passion for dance
One of the most striking aspects of the home is its deep connection to Indian classical dance. Even before entering the main living area, visitors are welcomed by bronze sculptures depicting classical dance mudras, instantly reflecting Hema Malini’s lifelong dedication to the art.The spacious living room doubles as a professional rehearsal studio with specially designed wooden flooring, allowing nearly 30 dancers to practise together. According to Esha, her mother continues to rehearse there regularly, treating dance not merely as a profession but as an essential part of everyday life.She also revealed that shoes are strictly prohibited inside the dance hall as a mark of respect for the art form.
A home rebuilt after the Mumbai floods
Although the property has stood for more than five decades, it underwent a major transformation following the devastating Mumbai floods in 2005, which severely damaged the original structure.The bungalow has since been rebuilt into a multi-storey residence, with separate floors thoughtfully designed for different members of the family, including Hema Malini, Esha Deol and her sister. Every level reflects the personality and lifestyle of its respective occupant while maintaining the warmth of a shared family home.
Two kitchens under one roof
Among the lesser-known details about the residence is its unique kitchen arrangement. Esha revealed that Hema Malini, who follows a strict vegetarian lifestyle, has her own private kitchen where nobody 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 food preferences are respected without disturbing Hema Malini’s personal beliefs and routine.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini‘s love story lives on inside the house
Perhaps the most emotional corner of the residence is a cosy sitting area dedicated to Hema Malini and Dharmendra. The space features personalised cushions bearing the couple’s portraits, serving as a reminder of their enduring bond.According to Esha, the house has silently witnessed both her parents’ extraordinary stardom and their beautiful love story over the decades.The residence also houses an office filled with treasured memorabilia, including fan-made artwork, framed photographs, paintings and keepsakes from Hema Malini’s illustrious film career. Among them are memories from classics like ‘Razia Sultan’, along with handcrafted gifts presented by admirers over the years.
More than a celebrity residence
While many visitors know the property as one of Mumbai’s famous celebrity landmarks, Esha believes ‘Advitiya’ represents much more than that. It is a living archive of Hema Malini’s artistic journey, preserving her devotion to dance, her family’s legacy and decades of unforgettable memories under one roof.Through the house tour, Esha offered a rare glimpse into a home where cinema, culture and family continue to exist in perfect harmony, making ‘Advitiya’ one of the city’s most meaningful celebrity residences.