Actress Hema Malini is upset with rumors that husband Dharmendra is ill and says he is perfectly healthy and happy doing yoga, writing poetry and spending time with his family.

"It almost seems like people want him to fall ill. I'm being asked about Dharamji's health everywhere," Hema Malini told IANS on phone from New Delhi.

Currently in New Delhi for a parliamentary session, Hema said: "Why are people unnecessarily making him fall ill? When I tell them he's well - in fact, in much better health than a lot of us - they are almost disappointed. Why? Because big stars being ill makes big news?"

Hema said her husband is hale and hearty. "And happy too. Why can't people leave him alone? I must say I partially blame Dharamji for the illness rumors. He has a habit of complaining about his health...Yahan dard hai, wahan taqleef hai... He must've done so and someone must have overheard. Bas, the rumors must have started."

But she has found a way of ensuring her husband's health. "I introduced Dharamji to yoga. He now practises it regularly. He also writes beautiful Urdu poetry. I wish I could write poetry, but I can't."

Evidently, the Dream Girl is his inspiration. "I wish I could've inspired him in more ways," she sighs.

"Dharamji is in Chandigarh with his two sons. He's having a ball. I wish people wouldn't make up stories about his health."

Hema, who's currently shooting for director Ravi Chopra's "Babul", is on the verge of signing two more very important films.

"I couldn't sign any and every role I got. In fact, 'Babul' was done only because we didn't want to break the 'Baghban' team. I really don't have that much to do in the film."

She's all praise for Ravi Chopra and his unit.

"Though their serial with me 'Kamini Damini' closed down, I enjoyed it. When I was given options of various co-stars I opted for their favorite Pankaj Dheer. He's a good conversationalist. And I was sure I wouldn't get bored between shots. Co-stars are becoming a problem for me. Whom do I pair with?"