Not Hema Malini or Prakash Kaur, THIS Bollywood heroine was madly in love with Dharmendra, despite being married, she is…

Dharmendra, fondly called Bollywood’s ‘He-Man,’ charmed audiences throughout the 1980s with his strong screen presence, effortless acting, and magnetic personality. Away from the spotlight, his personal journey was filled with intense emotions, relationships, and moments that kept him constantly in the public eye. The legendary ‘Tragedy Queen’ Meena Kumari, one of the finest actors of her time, developed a deep connection with Dharmendra despite being married to filmmaker Kamal Amrohi.

A Complicated Emotional World for Dharmendra

Caught in an unhappy marriage with a much older husband and raising three children, Meena found comfort in Dharmendra at a point when her life felt most fragile. Their bond strengthened while working together in films such as Purnima, Kajal, Phool Aur Pathar and Baaharon Ki Manzil, sparking endless gossip across the industry.

Meena’s Faith in Dharmendra

She trusted him completely. It is said Meena Kumari introduced Dharmendra to filmmakers and recommended him for roles, helping shape his rise to superstardom.

A Tragic End

Battling loneliness and alcoholism, Meena Kumari’s health declined rapidly. She passed away at 38. After her death, actress Nargis wrote an emotional letter—later published in Yasir Abbasi’s book Un Dinon Ki Baat Hai—revealing that Meena shared her closest emotional bond with Dharmendra.

When Hema Malini Became Dharmendra’s Chapter

Soon after, the graceful and much-adored Hema Malini stepped into his world. Admired by the biggest names—including Jeetendra, Sanjeev Kumar, and Raaj Kumar—Hema ultimately fell for Dharmendra. Dharmendra and Hema first crossed paths in 1970 while working on Tum Haseen Main Jawaan. By then, he was already a father to four children: Sunny, Bobby, Vijeta, and Ajeita.

A Love That Shook Bollywood

Their on-screen romance soon turned into a real-life relationship. After years of speculation, the two tied the knot in 1980, creating headlines everywhere. Dharmendra embraced Islam before marrying Hema Malini. Together, they welcomed two daughters — Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.

A Final Goodbye

Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. He breathed his last on November 24, 2025, shortly after being discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he had been admitted for a routine check-up.