'Dreamgirl' Hema Malini's dream fulfilled!

The Maharashtra government has allotted the BJP Lok Sabha member a 2,000 square metre plot in the upmarket Andheri West suburb to set up an academy and ultimately a full-fledge cultural complex. "The state government has approved the project proposal and Revenue Minister Eknath Khadse presented the allotment letter to Hema Malini at his official residence today (Tuesday)," an official said. [sic]

With a desire to set up a full-fledged cultural complex to impart training in classical and experimental music, arts and dance, Hema Malini had applied for the plot of land way back in 1996. Recently, she called on Khadse and requested him to expedite the matter, buried in bureaucratic red tape for almost 20 years.

The minister forwarded the proposal to the revenue department which submitted its reply and recommendations on December 23.

"This allotment has been possible only because of the personal interest shown by Khadse. I am grateful to him and the state government," Hema Malini said while accepting the letter of allotment. [sic]

The state government had laid down certain conditions for the trust including afforestation, developing a small garden which would be open to the public, and other requirements within two years of getting possession. Since the proposed academy would be run on a charitable basis, it will not be entitled to generate profits, is another prime requirement.