Dharmendra's Death: When Hema Malini Spoke About Her Marriage With the He-Man of Bollywood

The legendary actor Dharmendra passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Indian cinema. His career spanned decades, marked by memorable performances and a charismatic screen presence that earned him the title of "He-Man" of Bollywood. Beyond his professional achievements, Dharmendra's personal life, particularly his marriage to Hema Malini, remained a subject of public fascination.

Dharmendra and Hema Malini's love story began on the sets of the film Tum Haseen Main Jawan in 1970. Their on-screen chemistry soon translated into a real-life romance, though not without its complexities. Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he had four children, including actors Sunny and Bobby Deol. Despite this, Dharmendra and Hema Malini tied the knot on May 2, 1980.

Theirs was an unconventional union that defied societal norms. In her biography, Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl, she revealed that she chose not to live with Dharmendra after their marriage, a decision made out of respect for his first family. This arrangement, while unusual, allowed Hema to maintain her independence and dignity.

In a candid conversation, Hema Malini once spoke about her marriage, acknowledging that it wasn't the "picture-perfect dream" she had once imagined. She admitted that "Nobody wants to live like this. But automatically, what happens, you have to accept". She found solace and joy in raising their two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, and building an independent life.

Despite the distance, their bond remained strong. Hema Malini, in an interview, shared insights into their relationship, stating, "We start each day with a fight and...". While the full context of that statement remains private, it hints at the everyday realities and compromises inherent in any long-term relationship, especially one as unique as theirs. It suggests a dynamic where both individuals maintained their strong personalities and opinions, leading to occasional disagreements, but ultimately finding a way to navigate life together.

The couple's decision to live separately also sparked rumors that Dharmendra converted to Islam in order to marry Hema Malini, as Islamic law permits polygamy. However, Dharmendra strongly denied these rumors.

Hema Malini also addressed the challenges of being labeled the "other woman". She acknowledged the criticism and judgments she faced but remained steadfast in her choices, prioritizing her happiness and love above societal expectations. "People talked behind my back, but I knew what made me happy," she stated.

Dharmendra and Hema Malini's marriage endured for over four decades, a testament to their love, understanding, and acceptance of each other's realities. Their story serves as a reminder that love can take many forms and that happiness can be found even in the most unconventional of circumstances.

Dharmendra's death marks the end of an era in Bollywood. His contribution to cinema will forever be remembered, as will his iconic love story with Hema Malini – a story of love, compromise, and a bond that defied societal norms.