Hema Malini Reveals Why She Lives Separately from Dharmendra — “Sometimes Circumstances Decide for You”
Bollywood’s Dream Girl Hema Malini has always embodied grace, poise, and timeless beauty. But behind her serene smile lies a deeply emotional and dignified chapter of her life — her marriage with veteran superstar Dharmendra. Recently, in an old interview that resurfaced online, Hema Malini spoke openly about why she and Dharmendra chose to live separately, revealing the quiet strength that defined their unconventional love story.
“No husband and wife like to live separately, but sometimes circumstances are such that a person has to accept it,” Hema said, her voice calm and reflective — a statement that continues to resonate with generations of fans.
A Love Story Beyond Time and Tradition
Their love began on the film sets of the early 1970s. At the time, Dharmendra was already a huge star — admired for his rugged charm and charisma — and married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he had four children, including Sunny and Bobby Deol. Hema Malini, meanwhile, was at the peak of her career, adored as India’s Dream Girl.
What began as on-screen chemistry soon turned into real affection. Their pairing in films like Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Dream Girl made them one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen couples. But behind the lights and cameras, their love was growing quietly — and courageously.
When Dharmendra decided to marry Hema Malini without divorcing his first wife, it created shockwaves across India. In the conservative social fabric of the 1980s, where monogamy was a legal and moral expectation, their decision became a bold act of love — one that challenged norms and defied judgment.

A Relationship Built on Respect and Boundaries
Though married, Dharmendra continued to live with his first family in Juhu, while Hema Malini made her home nearby. The couple maintained their privacy, choosing emotional connection over physical proximity.
In her authorized biography “Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl” by Ram Kamal Mukherjee, she opened up about this delicate balance:
“I did not want to trouble anyone. I am happy with what Dharam ji did for me and my daughters. He played the role of a father like any father would. I think I am satisfied with it.”
Her words revealed a quiet acceptance — not of compromise, but of understanding. She knew her situation wasn’t conventional, but she never allowed it to turn bitter.
Two Homes, One Bond
Even though they lived separately, Dharmendra always played an active role in Hema’s life and in the lives of their daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. The family was often seen together at major celebrations and film events, and their bond seemed warm and affectionate.
Interestingly, Hema once revealed that she had met Dharmendra’s first wife, Prakash Kaur, at social gatherings before her marriage — but never afterward. Despite living close by, she never visited Dharmendra’s Juhu bungalow. The emotional distance between two homes symbolized the delicate boundaries that held her life together.
“I Am Happy With Myself” – Hema Malini Acceptance
In a heartfelt conversation with Lehren, Hema explained her feelings with remarkable composure:
“I do not feel bad about it, nor am I sad. I am happy with myself. I have two children and I have raised them very well. Of course, he (Dharmendra) was always with me.”
Her words captured the essence of her life — contentment, not complaint. Rather than focusing on what she lacked, she celebrated what she had: love, family, and peace.
The True Dream Girl: Grace Under Pressure
Hema Malini’s journey teaches that relationships are not defined by social labels but by emotional depth. Her life choices reflect courage — choosing love while maintaining self-respect and balance.
Even today, when younger audiences discover her story, they find it inspiring — a woman who neither rebelled nor surrendered, but walked her path with dignity.
She focused on her work, raised her daughters with strong values, and continued to be a respected artist, parliamentarian, and classical dancer.
The Family Today
Recently, actor Bobby Deol revealed that his parents, Dharmendra and Prakash Kaur, now live together in their Khandala bungalow. Meanwhile, Hema continues to live independently, close to her daughters and grandchildren.
Their unique family dynamic — though unconventional — thrives on mutual respect. Dharmendra is often seen attending family events and showering love on all his children.
Fans React: “Hema Ji Defines Strength”
When clips of Hema Malini’s old interview resurfaced on social media, fans flooded the internet with admiration. Comments called her “a symbol of emotional strength” and “the real definition of grace.”
Her calm explanation of a complicated relationship touched hearts — showing that love sometimes takes untraditional forms, and that peace often comes from acceptance, not perfection.
Legacy of a Love Beyond Rules
Hema Malini and Dharmendra’s love story remains one of Bollywood’s most talked-about relationships. It’s not just about glamour and fame — it’s about human choices, quiet compromises, and unwavering affection.
Their story continues to inspire millions — not for its drama, but for its dignity. In a world obsessed with ideal relationships, Hema Malini’s honesty stands out as a reminder that love is not always about being together — sometimes, it’s about understanding apartness.
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