Actor Esha Deol, currently preparing for her theatrical return, recently opened up about the significance of familial support and her personal views on companionship. During the trailer launch of her upcoming film, 'Pratap', on Monday, the actor reflected on the importance of standing by family members through life’s inevitable highs and lows. When the conversation turned towards the qualities of a life partner, she pointed to a familiar figure as her reference point for an ideal husband.
When asked to identify who she considered the perfect husband within the context of the Bollywood industry, Esha chose her late father, the legendary actor Dharmendra. Explaining her choice, she noted that her perspective was shaped by personal observation rather than public perception. She stated in Hindi, translated to English, that she had closely observed only her father in the roles of both a father and a husband throughout her life, leading her to describe him as the ideal.
Dharmendra, a towering figure in Indian cinema, had a personal life that was frequently in the public eye. He married Prakash Kaur in 1954, long before his rise to superstardom, and they shared four children: actors Sunny and Bobby Deol, along with daughters Vijeta and Ajeeta. Later, while filming the 1970 production 'Tum Haseen Main Jawaan', he met Hema Malini. The two went on to star in numerous successful films together, such as 'Sholay', 'Seeta Aur Geeta', and 'Dream Girl'. They married in 1980, and the couple had two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol.
The veteran actor passed away on November 24, 2025, at his Mumbai residence at the age of 89, shortly before what would have been his 90th birthday. His health had been a subject of concern in his final months; he was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai in October 2025 due to breathlessness. After receiving weeks of specialized medical care, he was discharged on November 12 to continue his recovery at home, before his death later that month.
During the promotional event, Esha also spoke broadly about the nature of partnerships. She noted that while people choose their own spouses, or have them chosen by parents in arranged unions, the individual chosen becomes a foundational part of one's family. She stressed that regardless of the circumstances, supporting each other through life's challenges remains a vital aspect of a healthy marriage.
The film marking Esha Deol’s comeback, 'Pratap', is directed by Sachin Saraf and features an ensemble cast including Amit Sadh, Seema Biswas, Tigmanshu Dhulia, and Milind Gunaji. The narrative centres on a decorated encounter specialist who finds himself imprisoned following a murder charge. As he navigates his circumstances, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, eventually uncovering a web of events linked to an act of retribution originating in his past.
Produced by Pradeep Raghwani and presented under the banner of UV Films, 'Pratap' is scheduled for a wide release on November 20. The trailer launch served as the platform for the cast to discuss the film's themes and their experiences on set, while providing Esha Deol the opportunity to connect with the media ahead of the film's theatrical debut.
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