Bollywood icon Hema Malini has openly discussed her marriage to Dharmendra, highlighting that her decision was rooted in love rather than material gain. Despite Dharmendra already being married to Prakash Kaur, Hema Malini chose to marry him in 1980, a decision that sparked considerable public interest.
In a 2022 conversation with Rajdeep Sardesai on India Today, Hema Malini shared insights into the beginning of their relationship. She admitted that she was drawn to Dharmendra's exceptional handsomeness from the very first time she saw him. She clarified that while his looks initially impressed her, her admiration grew over time as he actively pursued her.
Hema Malini, coming from a traditional Tamil background, acknowledged the difficulties of marrying a man who already had a family. She recounted a moment where she felt compelled to ask Dharmendra to marry her, emphasizing that their relationship couldn't continue as it was. She was aware of the potential challenges but prioritized love above all else.
"Just love. He's always there for me so what else do I need," Hema Malini stated, underlining the importance of Dharmendra's presence in her life. She explicitly stated that she did not need property, money, or anything else from him, but simply his love.
Despite being married, Hema Malini and Dharmendra chose to live separately. In an interview with Lehren Retro, Hema Malini admitted that living separately was not ideal, but she accepted it.
Together, Hema Malini and Dharmendra have captivated audiences with their on-screen charisma. Their love story began on the set of the film Tum Haseen Main Jawaan, eventually leading to their marriage in a nikaah ceremony in 1979.
Beyond their successful careers in Bollywood, both Hema Malini and Dharmendra have ventured into politics. Hema Malini has been a BJP candidate from the Mathura constituency, while Dharmendra has served as a member of the Lok Sabha representing Bikaner.
In 2019, Hema Malini's affidavit revealed her assets to be worth Rs 101 crore, with Dharmendra's assets valued at over Rs 123.85 crore. Despite their wealth, Hema Malini's statements about her marriage to Dharmendra emphasize that her motivation was love, not financial gain.
