Bollywood dream girl Hema Malini has one big regret - not getting to act in any film directed by Satyajit Ray, known for making masterpieces like film "Pather Panchali", "Charulata" and the "Apu" triology.

"I wished Satyajit Ray would have directed me, but it did not happen, " Hema told mediapersons on the sidelines of a programme here Sunday.

Hema said she was a "follower" of Bengali cinema and loved watching films by Ray and "36 Chowringhee Lane" fame director Aparna Sen.

Hema Malini, who married her co-star Dharmendra, said marriage affects the career of a heroine.

"It is the biggest decision an actress takes - whether she wants to continue acting or get married, because marriage surely does affect the career of a heroine. But again how long can one be a heroine? Not for long, " she replied when asked whether marriage can ruin a heroine's career.

The 64-year-old, known for films like "Dreamgirl", "Sholay" and "Seeta Aur Geeta", is also active in politics. She is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Speaking to mediapersons on the sidelines of an award ceremony at the Science City auditorium, the former Rajya Sabha member said politics was the right platform to serve people.

"Politics is the right platform to give back whatever respect I have earned from people, by doing good work for the public, " she said.

At the function, Hema was conferred the P.C. Chandra award for her contribution to Indian cinema.