The Indian film industry mourns the loss of veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. The legendary star breathed his last at his Mumbai residence, just twelve days after being discharged from Breach Candy Hospital. While the world remembers him for his six-decade career spanning over 300 films and his 'He-Man' image, there's another story that deserves attention - that of his first wife, Prakash Kaur.
The Private Life Before Stardom
Long before Dharmendra became a household name in Indian cinema, he married Prakash Kaur in 1954. At just 19 years old, the actor began his marital journey far from the glitz and glamour that would later define his professional life. Prakash Kaur maintained a distinctly private existence throughout, choosing to focus on her family rather than the spotlight that followed her famous husband.
By the time Dharmendra made his film debut in Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960, the couple had already welcomed their first son, Sunny. Their family expanded rapidly with the arrival of daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta, followed by their youngest son Bobby in 1969. In a touching tribute to his family, Dharmendra named his production banner Vijayta Films after his daughter, acknowledging the household that remained his anchor while his career soared to unprecedented heights.
Navigating Complex Family Dynamics
In 1980, Dharmendra's personal life took a dramatic turn when he married Bollywood dream girl Hema Malini without divorcing Prakash Kaur. In an era where women rarely spoke publicly about such matters, Prakash broke her silence in a remarkable 1981 interview with Stardust magazine.
Her words became legendary when she stated, "Why only my husband? Any man would have preferred Hema over me." Despite the complicated circumstances, she consistently described Dharmendra as "the best father," even while acknowledging he wasn't the perfect husband. She expressed disapproval of Hema Malini's choices but demonstrated remarkable empathy by understanding her feelings "as a woman."
Through all the turbulence, Prakash Kaur maintained her position at the family home, raising her four children with unwavering dedication. Dharmendra went on to father two more daughters - Esha and Ahana - with Hema Malini, creating separate households that eventually found a way to coexist in their unique arrangement.
A Legacy of Dignity and Strength
Recent revelations from son Bobby Deol to ABP News shed light on the actor's final living arrangements. "My mum is also there. They're both at the farm in Khandala right now," Bobby shared. "Papa and Mummy are together; he just gets a little dramatic. They love being at the farmhouse. They're also old now and being at the farmhouse is relaxing for them."
Prakash Kaur's life stands as a testament to quiet strength and resilience. She never sought public attention, instead focusing on raising her children and maintaining family unity through decades of public speculation. At the time of Dharmendra's passing, the couple had been married for an incredible 70 years.
The veteran actor leaves behind a complex legacy that includes both wives, six children, and countless memories from a career that shaped Hindi cinema. While the world remembers Dharmendra the star, the story of Prakash Kaur reminds us of the strong, dignified woman who stood by him through every chapter of his remarkable journey.
