Grief has a strange way of changing equations in Bollywood families. In a heartfelt confession, Bobby Deol opened up about how the loss of his father, the legendary Dharmendra, has quietly reshaped relationships within the Deol clan.
The actor, still processing the pain, admitted that while the loss left a huge emotional gap, it also built new bridges, especially with his half-sisters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol.
Also Read: Dharmendra’s family: From Sunny and Bobby to Esha and Ahana, meet the generations of Bollywood’s beloved Deols
He shared that there are many moments when he wishes he had simply spent more time sitting with his father talking, asking questions, just being around. Now those missed opportunities weigh heavily on him.
The actor also revealed that he often watches Dharmendra’s Instagram reels, and sometimes it feels as if the late star is speaking directly to him.
Shared grief brings siblings closer
Bobby explained that grief has affected every member of the family differently, but it has also brought them closer together. He said the shared loss has strengthened his bond with Esha and Ahana.
According to him, when a family goes through pain, misunderstandings can happen because everyone is hurting in their own way. But time, he believes, helps heal those wounds.
He reflected on how loss makes people realise the value of relationships. Bobby mentioned that everyone tends to think their own pain is the greatest, but patience allows space for healing.
In his view, grief ultimately has a way of pulling people together rather than pushing them apart. The actor also noticed a visible change in his sons after Dharmendra’s passing.
He observed that they seem more mature and more aware of how fragile life really is. As a result, they are spending more time together as a family.
“I wish I had sat with him more”
Opening up further, Bobby admitted that he now feels more conscious about being present for his loved ones. He said there are days when he regrets not sitting longer with his father or asking him more about life.
He even questioned the meaning of fame and wealth if there is no one to share them with. Watching Dharmendra’s candid, warm videos online has become an emotional ritual for him.
Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 on November 24 last year at his Mumbai residence. His final film, ‘Ikkis’, directed by Sriram Raghavan, released on January 1 and received appreciation from both critics and audiences. This year, the veteran actor was posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan.