Family Dynamics Revealed: Hema Malini Steps Aside While Dharmendra’s First Wife Becomes His Pillar

Veteran actor Dharmendra, a beloved figure in Indian cinema, has recently been in the limelight—not for his films, but due to concerns about his health. The 87-year-old actor reportedly faced some serious health issues, raising worry among fans and the media alike. During this critical phase, public attention shifted not just to his condition but also to the dynamics within his family, especially surrounding the presence and absence of his wives, Hema Malini and Prakash Kaur.

Hospitalization and Family Support

It was reported that Dharmendra encountered significant health challenges, resulting in hospitalization. As news about his illness spread, many fans expected that his wife, Hema Malini, would be by his side to provide support. Surprisingly, that was not the case. Instead, it was Dharmendra’s first wife, Prakash Kaur, who stepped up and became his primary caregiver during his hospital stay.

Journalists and fans alike began to speculate why Hema Malini, who has often publicly spoken of her affection for Dharmendra, did not remain with him through such a challenging period, leaving Prakash Kaur to care for him alone. This raised questions regarding the relationships within the household, particularly considering the well-known familial complexities involving Dharmendra, his two wives, and his children.

Hema Malini and Her Absence

Known as Bollywood’s “Dream Girl,” Hema Malini has had a long-standing relationship with Dharmendra, having married him in 1980 after a much-publicized romance. The couple’s union created headlines at the time, largely because Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur and had children with her. In order to marry Hema, Dharmendra reportedly converted to Islam, since polygamy is not permitted under Hindu law.

Despite their enduring marriage and their two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, Hema Malini has often openly recognized the unique and sensitive circumstances of her relationship with Dharmendra. She is known to be discreet and respectful towards Dharmendra’s first family, rarely intruding into their personal affairs.

In the wake of Dharmendra’s illness, insider sources have cited that Hema Malini consciously chose not to be present at every step, instead letting his first wife and their children take charge of his care. This decision, according to sources close to the family, comes from a place of understanding and respect towards Prakash Kaur, who has remained an unwavering support system for Dharmendra throughout his life.

Prakash Kaur’s Unwavering Support

Prakash Kaur, Dharmendra’s first wife, has largely stayed out of the limelight despite being married to one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. She has consistently supported her family with grace and dignity and has played an instrumental role in looking after Dharmendra in times of need.

During his recent illness, Prakash Kaur was present, offering comfort and attending to his needs. Her dedication made a strong impression, reminding many observers of the value of longstanding relationships and the devotion that often persists even after decades of marriage.

The Children Rally Around Their Father

Dharmendra’s children from his first marriage—Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, and Ajeita—also reportedly rallied to provide support to their father during his hospitalization. The bond among the siblings and their collective care highlighted the unity within the Deol family in challenging times.

In contrast, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, daughters from Dharmendra’s marriage to Hema Malini, have maintained a dignified silence in the public eye, which is in keeping with how Hema Malini has always handled family matters—with discretion and distance when it comes to Dharmendra’s first family.

A Complex Yet Harmonious Family Bond

The situation has brought renewed focus to the familial dynamics of one of Bollywood’s most discussed households. Despite the unconventional marital arrangement and the attention that comes with it, both Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini have maintained mutual respect and understanding, allowing the family to function with a sense of harmony as much as possible.

It’s been repeatedly observed that Hema Malini avoids direct intervention in matters pertaining to Dharmendra’s first marriage. Over the years, she has made it clear in interviews that she expects Dharmendra to spend time with his first family and that she chooses not to interfere or create complications.

Public Reactions and Lessons Learned

The handling of Dharmendra’s illness and the roles his wives played have been a topic of much discussion among fans and in the media. While some wondered why Hema Malini was absent during the crisis, others admired her restraint and respect for the boundaries within the complex family structure.

Ultimately, this situation reflects not just the realities of personal relationships but also the challenges faced by blended families everywhere, especially those in the public eye. Dharmendra’s story is a reminder of the enduring strength of bonds formed over decades and the quiet dignity with which individuals like Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini maintain family balance.

Conclusion

As Dharmendra continues to recover, his first wife Prakash Kaur remains by his side as his pillar of strength, while Hema Malini supports him from a respectful distance, honoring the delicate fabric of their extended family. Their actions underscore a mature understanding and mutual respect—offering a nuanced perspective on love, loyalty, and the complexity of human relationships.