Can Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol EVER Have Affairs? Dharmendra’s Take Revealed by Anil Sharma
By Entertainment Desk | Mumbai | November 2025
Bollywood’s Most Grounded Family
The Deol family has long been one of Bollywood’s most respected dynasties. Known for their humility, discipline, and strong values, the Deols—led by legendary actor Dharmendra—have maintained an image of dignity for generations.
While celebrity gossip often targets film stars, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol have always stood apart. Their clean reputation and simple lifestyle have earned them admiration both within and outside the industry.
Recently, filmmaker Anil Sharma, the man behind Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and Gadar 2, made a heartwarming revelation about Dharmendra’s views on his sons’ personal lives. His statement offered fans a rare glimpse into the Deol family’s moral compass and the values that guide them.
The Question That Sparked the Conversation
During a candid chat about his long collaboration with the Deols, Anil Sharma was asked about the brothers’ off-screen personalities. The conversation soon drifted toward the topic of stardom, relationships, and whether Sunny or Bobby ever got caught up in the distractions that fame often brings.
Smiling at the memory, Sharma recalled asking Dharmendra, half-jokingly, if his sons ever had affairs or flings—something not uncommon in the glamorous world of Bollywood.
Dharmendra’s response was simple yet powerful. “He smiled and said, ‘Mere bete Sunny aur Bobby aise nahi hain. Unke paas us sab ke liye waqt hi nahi hai.’ (My sons are not like that. They don’t have time for all this).”
That single line perfectly summed up the Deol brothers’ character—grounded, focused, and deeply committed to their work and family.
What made this particular conversation even more interesting was the context in which it happened. Industry insiders often discuss how difficult it is for actors to maintain a clean personal image when they are constantly surrounded by fame, attention, and public scrutiny. In such an environment, even the most disciplined individuals can find themselves drawn into rumors or controversies.
Anil Sharma’s curiosity reflected a broader perception of Bollywood, where relationships, link-ups, and speculation are often considered inevitable. His question, though asked in a light-hearted tone, touched upon a reality that many actors face — the pressure of public life and the temptations that come with it.
Dharmendra’s calm and confident reply, however, shifted the narrative entirely. It wasn’t defensive or dismissive; instead, it reflected complete trust in his sons’ upbringing. That assurance hinted at a deeper foundation — a value system instilled over decades, far stronger than the fleeting influences of stardom.
This moment also revealed something subtle yet powerful: Dharmendra wasn’t just responding to a question; he was expressing pride. Pride not in their success alone, but in their character, discipline, and choices as individuals navigating a complex industry.
Dharmendra’s Influence on His Sons
Those close to Dharmendra describe him as a man of deep emotions and unwavering values. Even at the height of his superstardom, he never let success cloud his humility.
His sons clearly inherited that mindset.
- Sunny Deol, known for his quiet and reserved nature, has always maintained discipline and dignity. Despite massive success with blockbusters like Ghayal, Border, and Gadar, he’s stayed away from gossip and controversy.
- Bobby Deol, the younger of the two, is admired for his calm and respectful demeanor. His resurgence with projects like Aashram and Animal showcased not just his talent but also his resilience and professionalism.
As Anil Sharma noted, “Dharmendra ji’s greatest achievement isn’t just his iconic career—it’s the kind of men he raised. He taught them that respect and honesty matter far more than glamour.”
Dharmendra’s influence goes beyond being a father — he has been a guiding force shaping the emotional and moral framework of his sons. His life experiences, from humble beginnings to superstardom, taught him the importance of staying grounded, no matter how high one rises.
He often emphasized that success in cinema is temporary, but respect earned through behavior lasts forever. This philosophy appears to have deeply influenced both Sunny and Bobby, who have consistently chosen dignity over controversy.
Sunny Deol, for instance, has built his career on intensity and sincerity, rarely engaging in public disputes or sensational headlines. His focus has always remained on his work, whether as an actor or as a public representative. This disciplined approach reflects the values Dharmendra prioritized — commitment, responsibility, and respect.
Bobby Deol’s journey, on the other hand, highlights resilience. During the quieter phases of his career, he maintained composure and patience instead of seeking attention through controversy. His eventual comeback wasn’t fueled by publicity, but by perseverance — another trait often associated with Dharmendra.
Their upbringing seems to have instilled a strong sense of self-awareness. Both actors understand the difference between public image and personal integrity, choosing to protect their private lives while letting their work speak for them.
A Rare Family in a Glamorous Industry
In an industry where fame often leads to scrutiny, the Deols have managed to maintain their privacy and unity.
- Sunny Deol, who also serves as a Member of Parliament, is known for keeping his personal life completely separate from his public image. He avoids unnecessary controversies and remains focused on his responsibilities.
- Bobby Deol, even during his quieter career phase, never sought publicity through drama. He stayed true to himself, working hard until his well-deserved comeback.
Their sister Esha Deol has often spoken about the family’s close bond. “We’re a very close-knit family,” she once said. “No matter how busy we are, we always make time for each other. That’s something Papa taught us.”
The Deol family’s approach to fame stands in contrast to the evolving nature of celebrity culture. In an era where visibility often equals relevance, the Deols have chosen a quieter, more grounded path.
This restraint is not accidental — it reflects a conscious decision to prioritize authenticity over attention. While many celebrities actively engage with social media trends and public narratives, the Deols maintain a certain distance, allowing their work and reputation to define them.
Their lifestyle also reflects simplicity despite immense success. Stories from film sets and industry events often describe them as approachable, respectful, and easy to work with. This consistency has contributed to their enduring goodwill in the industry.
Another factor that sets them apart is their emphasis on family unity. Despite professional commitments and individual careers, the Deols maintain strong personal bonds. This sense of connection provides stability, helping them navigate the pressures of fame without losing perspective.
Anil Sharma on the Deols’ Values
Anil Sharma, who has known the Deols for decades, spoke fondly of their genuine humility.
“On set, Sunny and Bobby behave like complete gentlemen. They never make anyone uncomfortable, never throw tantrums. They’re humble to the core,” he shared.
He also remembered Dharmendra’s presence during the Gadar shoots. “When he visited the set, he treated everyone—from technicians to spot boys—with respect. That warmth runs in the family.”
According to Sharma, affairs or scandals are simply not part of the Deol world. “They live for their work, family, and values. Dharmendra ji always taught them to respect women and never misuse fame. They’ve lived by that principle all their lives.”
Anil Sharma’s long association with the Deol family offers a unique insight into their working style and personal conduct. His observations reflect not just admiration, but genuine respect built over years of collaboration.
According to Sharma, one of the most striking aspects of the Deols is their consistency. Whether interacting with co-stars, technicians, or crew members, their behavior remains the same — respectful, patient, and professional.
He has often mentioned how comfortable the working environment becomes when they are on set. There is a sense of ease and mutual respect that encourages collaboration and creativity. This atmosphere is rarely achieved in high-pressure film productions, making it a valuable quality.
Sharma also highlights their discipline. Punctuality, preparation, and focus are traits he associates with both Sunny and Bobby. These qualities not only enhance their performances but also set an example for others on set.
The Deol Legacy of Dignity
In today’s world of social media frenzy and celebrity gossip, the Deols remain refreshingly different. They value privacy over publicity and hard work over hype.
- Sunny Deol’s honesty and Bobby Deol’s humility have made them icons of integrity.
- Their clean image and consistent professionalism continue to inspire younger actors.
Dharmendra, even today, beams with pride over his sons’ character. His influence clearly extends to the next generation—his grandsons, Karan and Rajveer Deol, are now carving their paths in cinema under the same guiding values.
The idea of dignity is central to the Deol legacy. It is reflected not only in their public image but also in their professional choices and interactions.
Sunny Deol’s filmography, for example, often features characters rooted in honesty and strength. These roles mirror his personal values, reinforcing a consistent image both on and off screen. His preference for meaningful roles over commercial gimmicks highlights his commitment to authenticity.
Bobby Deol’s journey also reflects dignity in a different way — through perseverance and reinvention. Instead of chasing trends, he has adapted to changing times while staying true to his identity.
The next generation of the Deol family appears to be following a similar path. With new entrants in the industry, the emphasis remains on discipline, respect, and gradual growth rather than instant fame.
Redefining Stardom the Deol Way
In a time when Bollywood headlines are often dominated by breakups, feuds, and controversies, the Deols remind us that fame doesn’t have to come at the cost of character.
Their story is proof that discipline, humility, and family love can withstand the toughest pressures of stardom.
As Anil Sharma summed up beautifully,
“In all my years working with the Deols, I’ve never seen arrogance or indulgence. They’re simple people with golden hearts. When Dharmendra ji said his sons don’t have time for affairs, he meant it—they’re too busy with work, family, and the love of their fans.”
