In the annals of Bollywood, the story of Dharmendra, the celebrated "He-Man" of Indian cinema, is as much about his personal life as it is about his illustrious career. While his on-screen charisma and performances have captivated audiences for decades, his marriage to Prakash Kaur and the subsequent complexities of his relationship with Hema Malini have equally intrigued the public.

Prakash Kaur, Dharmendra's first wife, has maintained a low profile, especially compared to the stardom of her husband and sons. Their marriage, an arranged affair, took place in 1954 when Dharmendra was just 19 years old, long before he entered the film industry. At the time, he was a young man from Punjab, far removed from the glitz and glamour that would later define his life. Together, they have four children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta Deol, and Ajeeta Deol. While Sunny and Bobby followed in their father's footsteps to become successful actors, Vijeta and Ajeeta chose to lead private lives away from the media glare. Ajeeta is reportedly a school teacher in California.

Prakash Kaur has been described as graceful and grounded, choosing to dedicate her life to her family. She remained a homemaker, raising her children with warmth and resilience even as her husband's fame grew exponentially.

Dharmendra's second marriage to Hema Malini in 1980 became one of the most talked-about events in Bollywood. Because he was already married to Prakash Kaur, the union sparked considerable controversy. Some reports even suggested that Dharmendra converted to Islam in order to marry Hema Malini without divorcing Prakash Kaur, although these rumors were later dismissed.

Despite the complexities of the situation, Prakash Kaur handled the circumstances with remarkable dignity. In a rare interview with Stardust magazine in 1981, she stated that while Dharmendra "might not be the best husband," he was "certainly the best father". She even expressed understanding towards Hema Malini, acknowledging her beauty and the fact that any man would be drawn to her charm.

Prakash Kaur's decision to remain out of the spotlight has cemented her image as a woman of strength and grace. She maintained a close relationship with her children and grandchildren, embodying traditional family values. Even after decades, she continues to command respect for her composure and resilience in the face of personal challenges.

Dharmendra and Hema Malini have two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, both of whom have also pursued careers in the film industry. Dharmendra's family life has always been a blend of tradition and modernity. While he instilled traditional values in his daughters, he also allowed them to make their own choices.

Recently, on November 10, 2025, Dharmendra was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai due to respiratory issues. While rumors of his death circulated, they were quickly dispelled by his wife, Hema Malini, and daughter, Esha Deol, who confirmed that he was alive and in stable condition. As of November 11, 2025, the actor is recovering.

Dharmendra's legacy extends beyond his cinematic achievements. His family, including Prakash Kaur, Hema Malini, his children, and grandchildren, represents a complex tapestry of relationships, bound together by love, respect, and enduring family bonds. Prakash Kaur, the woman who stood by Dharmendra long before the stardom, remains an unseen pillar of the Deol household.