When Dharmendra's 1st wife, Prakash, broke her silence on his second marriage to Hema Malini: 'He may not be the best husband but…'

The union of Hema Malini and Dharmendra in 1980 drew immense attention across the country. Their wedding became one of the most talked-about events of the era, not only because they were among the most admired screen couples of the 1970s, but also because Dharmendra was already a married man. His first wife, Prakash Kaur, had been with him since 1954, long before he entered the film world. When Dharmendra made his cinematic debut in 1960, the couple was already raising a family together, and in the years that followed, they welcomed four children.

Rumors and Reactions to the Controversial Wedding

The announcement of Dharmendra’s second marriage stirred widespread speculation. According to multiple reports, he allegedly changed his religion to make the marriage with Hema Malini possible while still legally wed to Prakash. Public opinion was sharply divided. Some critics labeled him negatively, calling him unfaithful, while others debated whether his choice was personal or reflective of broader industry trends.

Prakash Kaur’s Rare Public Stand

Despite being a private person who largely avoided the limelight, Prakash Kaur eventually addressed the matter publicly. In 1981, during an interaction with Stardust, she expressed her views with candor. She acknowledged Hema Malini’s beauty and explained that any man in her husband’s position might have made the same choice. Defending Dharmendra against allegations of misconduct, she pointed out that extramarital affairs and second marriages were common among leading actors of that time.

Prakash highlighted that while her husband may not have been perfect as a partner, he remained a dedicated father.

“He may not be the best husband, though he is very good to me, but he is certainly the best father. His children love him a lot. He never neglects them," she told Stardust.

Her Thoughts on Hema Malini

Prakash also reflected on Hema Malini’s position. She admitted understanding the actress’s emotional struggles, recognizing that Hema too had to face society, family, and criticism. However, from the perspective of a wife and mother, she disapproved of her choices. She stated that though she empathized with Hema as a woman, she would not have followed the same path.

Acceptance and Family Bonds

In the same conversation, Prakash asserted that Dharmendra was the only man in her life and would remain so, as he was the father of her children. She said she did not know whether to fault her husband or destiny for the circumstances but maintained that he always supported her whenever she needed him.

From these two marriages, Dharmendra fathered six children. His sons with Prakash—Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol—went on to become successful actors. With Hema, he had two daughters, Esha and Ahana, with Esha also briefly pursuing acting.