Hema Malini Opens Up On Living Away From Dharmendra: Living With His First Wife “Nobody Wants To Be Like That, But It Happened”

Bollywood’s Dream Girl, Hema Malini, and the legendary Dharmendra have shared one of the most iconic love stories in the history of Indian cinema — a romance that was as passionate as it was unconventional. Their journey together has always fascinated fans, not only because of their magnetic chemistry on screen but also because of the unique way they’ve lived their lives off-screen.

Recently, Hema Malini’s candid confession about her relationship and living arrangement with Dharmendra resurfaced, giving fans a glimpse into the quiet strength and grace with which she has handled her personal life.

A Love Story That Defied Norms

The 1970s saw sparks fly between Dharmendra and Hema Malini during the making of Tum Haseen Main Jawan. At that time, Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur and had four children — Sunny, Bobby, Vijeta, and Ajeeta. Yet, destiny had its own plans. Dharmendra fell deeply in love with Hema, who initially tried to keep her distance out of respect for his existing family.

But love, as always, found its way.

Unable to part ways, Dharmendra made a decision that stunned many — he converted to Islam to marry Hema legally, as divorce wasn’t an option in his first marriage. Their quiet wedding in 1980 included both a nikah and an Iyengar-style ceremony, reflecting a blend of their beliefs and traditions. Despite the controversy and the public scrutiny, their bond endured, built on affection, understanding, and mutual respect.

Hema Malini’s Honest Reflection: “Nobody Wants To Be Like That”

In a heartfelt 2023 interview with Lehren Retro, Hema Malini spoke openly about her life with Dharmendra — or rather, her life apart from him. The veteran actress revealed that living separately was not a choice she desired, but one she gracefully accepted.

She said, “Nobody wants to be like that; it happens. Automatically, what happens, you have to accept. Otherwise, nobody will feel like they want to live their life like this.”

Her words carried both wisdom and quiet resilience. Hema admitted that every woman dreams of a complete family life — a home shared with her husband and children — but sometimes, life takes its own course.

“Every woman wants to have a husband, children, like a normal family. But somewhere, it went out of the way… I am not feeling bad about it, or sulking about it. I am happy with myself. I have my two children, and I have brought them up very well.”

There was no bitterness in her tone, only acceptance — a testament to her strength and maturity. For Hema, happiness lies in her daughters, Esha and Ahana, and the independent, dignified life she has built for herself.

Dharmendra’s Present Life With His First Wife, Prakash Kaur

In recent months, fans of Dharmendra expressed concern over his emotional posts on social media, assuming he might be living alone. However, Bobby Deol put those worries to rest in an interview, revealing that his father is living peacefully with his first wife, Prakash Kaur, at their farmhouse in Khandala.

Bobby shared, “My mum is also there. They’re both at the farm in Khandala right now. Papa and Mummy are together; he just gets a little dramatic. They love being at the farmhouse. They’re also old now, and being at the farmhouse is relaxing for them. The weather is nice, the food is nice. Papa has made a paradise out there.”

This revelation shed light on the warmth and companionship that Dharmendra continues to share with his first wife, even after all these years. It also reflected how the Deol family has found a balance — where love, respect, and space coexist peacefully.

The Grace Of A Dream Girl

Despite not living under the same roof as Dharmendra, Hema Malini has always spoken of him with immense love and respect. She never allowed personal challenges to overshadow her dignity. Over the years, she has gracefully navigated a path that very few could walk with such composure — balancing love, motherhood, and a career that continues to inspire generations.

She has also been candid about the fact that her story is not one many women would wish for, yet she chose acceptance over resentment. That quiet strength — the ability to love without demands and to stand tall without complaint — is what makes Hema Malini truly the Dream Girl of not just Indian cinema, but of life itself.

A Love Beyond Convention

The love between Dharmendra and Hema Malini might not fit the fairytale ideal, but it stands as a powerful example of how relationships evolve — shaped by circumstances, choices, and time. They may not share a home, but they share history, mutual affection, and the bond of their daughters.

Their story reminds us that love doesn’t always come in perfect forms. Sometimes, it’s about finding peace in imperfection and embracing what life gives with grace and gratitude.

As Hema Malini continues to shine in her own right — as an actress, a mother, and a leader — her words linger as a reflection of quiet wisdom:

“It happens. You have to accept it. Otherwise, nobody can live peacefully.”

And perhaps, that’s the real essence of love — acceptance, not possession.