Hema Malini and Dharmendra’s love story remains one of Bollywood’s most talked-about and complex romances. The two first met on the sets of the 1970 film Tu Haseen Main Jawan and soon developed a deep connection. However, their relationship drew widespread attention and criticism, as Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur and was the father of four children.
In her biography Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl, the actress candidly reflected on the emotional challenges of their unconventional relationship. She revealed that her decision to live separately from Dharmendra stemmed from a desire to preserve peace and dignity for everyone involved. “I didn’t want to disturb anyone. I am happy with whatever Dharamji did for me and my daughters,” she shared.
Hema admitted that she was often branded the “other woman” and faced harsh judgment, but she stood by her choices. “Fingers were pointed. Accusations were flung at us. I knew people discussed me behind my back. I just knew that he made me happy. And all I wanted was happiness,” she said. Rejecting assumptions that her marriage left her lonely, she added, “I am not a police officer who needs to keep tabs on him. He knows his duty as a father, and I’ve never had to remind him of it.”
In an earlier interview with Lehren Retro, Hema acknowledged that her marriage was far from conventional. “Nobody wants to live like this. But automatically, what happens, you have to accept. I am not sulking about it. I am happy with myself. I have my two children, and I have brought them up well,” she said.
Also Read: “Disrespectful and Cruel”: Hema Malini Slams Media Over False Reports on Dharmendra’s Death Rumors
Dharmendra shares four children — Sunny, Bobby, Vijeta and Ajeita — with Prakash Kaur, and two daughters, Esha and Ahana, with Hema. Despite challenges, their enduring bond stands as a testament to mutual respect, understanding and lasting love.
