Dharmendra, the celebrated "He-Man" of Bollywood, is known for his charismatic screen presence and versatile performances. While his love story with Hema Malini is widely known, it may come as a surprise that the actress wasn't his first love. Before Hema Malini entered his life, Dharmendra was captivated by another legendary actress: Suraiya.

Born Dharam Singh Deol in a village in Punjab, Dharmendra's journey to Bollywood was fueled by his admiration for Suraiya. He was so enchanted by her beauty and on-screen presence that he reportedly watched her film Dillagi 40 times. He would travel from place to place just to catch a glimpse of her movies on the big screen. By his own admission, it was Suraiya's work that drew him to the film world.

Suraiya, born in 1929, was a leading actress and playback singer in the 1940s and 50s. She starred in over 70 films and sang 338 songs. Her pairing with Dev Anand was particularly popular. Suraiya was at the peak of her career, she commanded remuneration twice of her contemporary actresses. Her popularity was such that during the premiere of the movie Badi Bahen, fans created turmoil, resulting in a police lathi charge.

Dharmendra's personal life is as captivating as his on-screen roles. He married Prakash Kaur in 1954 at the age of 19, long before his Bollywood career took off. Together, they have four children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeeta, and Ajeeta. Despite his later marriage to Hema Malini, Dharmendra remains legally married to Prakash Kaur.

Dharmendra and Hema Malini's love story began on the sets of Tum Haseen Main Jawaan in 1970. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and they went on to star in over 40 films together, including the iconic Sholay. As Dharmendra was already married, the couple reportedly converted to Islam to marry in 1979, changing their names to Dilawar and Ayesha. They later had an Iyengar wedding ceremony in 1980. They have two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.

In a 1981 interview, Prakash Kaur defended Dharmendra and acknowledged Hema Malini's appeal. She stated that any man would have preferred Hema to her and questioned the criticism directed at Dharmendra, pointing out that affairs and second marriages were common in the film industry.

Dharmendra, now 89, continues to be an active figure, appearing in films and sharing his life on social media. He was recently seen in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023) and Ikkis (2025). Despite rumors of his ill health, his family has confirmed that he is thriving. Even at this age, Dharmendra’s continues to inspire many.

While Hema Malini became the love of Dharmendra's life, Suraiya held a special place in his heart as the actress who ignited his passion for cinema. His admiration for her led him to pursue a career in Bollywood, where he achieved remarkable success and became a legend in his own right.