Actress Esha Deol has paid a heartfelt tribute to her late father, veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra, by naming him her idea of an ideal husband. Speaking at the trailer launch of her upcoming film Pratap, Esha discussed relationships, marriage and the importance of standing by loved ones through life's challenges.
When asked which Bollywood actor she considered a perfect husband, Esha chose her father, explaining that she had closely observed him in his role as a father and husband. Her response offered a personal glimpse into how she views family relationships and the values she believes are important in a marriage.
The comments have drawn attention as Esha prepares for her return to theatres with Pratap, a drama featuring Amit Sadh in the lead role.
Why Esha Deol Chose Her Father Dharmendra
During the event, Esha was asked about her understanding of an ideal husband and whether she had seen someone in Bollywood who embodied that role.
She responded, “Maine kareebi se sirf papa ko dekha hai as a father and husband, so I would say Dharam ji.”
Her answer reflected her personal experience rather than an attempt to compare different actors or relationships. Esha explained that Dharmendra was the person she had observed most closely in the roles of a father and husband.
The veteran actor, who died on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89, remained one of Hindi cinema's most recognisable stars. Beyond his long career on screen, his family life has also been a subject of public interest.
Esha's remarks have resonated with fans who continue to remember Dharmendra through his films and the memories shared by his family.
Esha Deol Shares Her Views on Marriage and Family
Alongside her comments about Dharmendra, Esha spoke about the importance of family members supporting one another during difficult periods.
She said that parents and children are an important part of the family people are given, while spouses become family through either personal choice or an arranged marriage.
According to Esha, the key to maintaining relationships is standing together through life's highs and lows. Her remarks highlighted the importance of understanding, patience and mutual support in a marriage.
Rather than defining an ideal husband through fame or public image, she focused on the relationships she had witnessed personally.
Her comments also offered a reminder that family life is often shaped by experiences that audiences do not see, even when the people involved are well-known public figures.
Dharmendra and Hema Malini's Family Life
Dharmendra and Hema Malini married in 1980 after becoming one of Hindi cinema's popular on-screen pairs. They worked together in films such as Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta and Dream Girl.
The couple have two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol. Dharmendra also had four children with his first wife, Prakash Kaur: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta and Ajeeta.
Dharmendra's family has remained in the public eye because of its contribution to Indian cinema, with Sunny and Bobby Deol continuing their acting careers.
Esha, who made her acting debut in the early 2000s, has also spoken openly about the importance of her parents in shaping her life. Her latest comments reflect the personal memories she carries of her father and the influence he had on her understanding of family relationships.
Esha Deol Returns to the Big Screen With Pratap
Esha is preparing for her next theatrical release, Pratap, directed by Sachin Saraf. The film stars Amit Sadh in the lead role and also features Seema Biswas, Tigmanshu Dhulia and Milind Gunaji.
The story follows a police officer who spends much of his life putting criminals behind bars before finding himself imprisoned for murder. As the narrative unfolds, he begins to uncover the circumstances surrounding his arrest and the events connected to his past.
Speaking about the project, Esha said she was drawn to the story because it has several layers that gradually change the audience's understanding of the characters.
She also expressed enthusiasm about working with Amit Sadh and director Sachin Saraf.
Pratap is scheduled to release in cinemas on November 20, 2026.
Esha's Tribute Keeps Dharmendra's Memories Alive
Esha's remarks have offered another glimpse into the personal memories that continue to shape her relationship with her late father. By naming Dharmendra as her example of an ideal husband, she explained that her answer came from the family life she had observed closely.
Her comments also placed the focus on the importance of supporting loved ones through difficult moments, a message that formed a central part of her discussion about marriage.
As Esha prepares for her next film, her tribute has brought renewed attention to Dharmendra's enduring place in the memories of his family and audiences.
Click here for the latest news from Bollywood, Hollywood, South Film Industry, Bhojpuri and TV world… Click here to join the Facebook Page, Twitter Page, YouTube page, and Instagram of Bollywood Mascot!
Leave a Comment