10 Bollywood Actors who married Actresses

Bollywood actors are recognised for the roles they are offered. We as audiences, often seek similarities in the characters they play in reel life, with their real life.

The same applies to the camaraderie they share with their co-stars.

The chemistry that these Bollywood actors share on-screen with their heroines only a few have been able to materialise these relationships off-screen too.

We are aware of how love blossomed in the lives of the Bachchans and Kapoors.

Here’s a comprehensive list of few other Bollywood actors, who found soul mates in their on-screen co-stars.

Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu

How did they meet?

The legendary couple is a living example of bridging the age gap of 22 years and still going strong. As a 12-year-old, Saira crushed on the 34-year-old actor and knew that they would marry.

Years later, Saira’s mum played cupid and arranged a special rendezvous with the legend.

The dashing star couldn’t believe the prettiness shining on the woman, Saira, standing in front of him and fell for her.

He proposed, she lived her dream and the rest is history. The ‘Kohinoor’ (a rare gem) that Banu found in Dilip Saab still shines bright.

When did they get married?

The couple tied the knot in 1966 when Saira was 22 and Dilip Kumar was 44.

Kids

The duo, unfortunately, had borne a stillborn child in 1972.

Films they have appeared in

They have worked together in films like Gopi (1970), Sagina (1974), Bairaag (1976) and Duniya (1984).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Saira became quite selective about her roles post-marriage with a decision to focus on her family.

Dilip Kumar kept enthralling the audiences through his impeccable acting skills.

In his autobiography, ‘Dilip Kumar: The Substance and the Shadow’, the actor has discussed his marriage with Asma Rehman. They had met at a cricket match in Hyderabad.

He got married to Rehman in 1981. He soon found out that she was cheating on him. They got divorced in 1983 making him realise his gravest mistake of leaving Saira.

Eventually, he went back to Saira. The two got remarried. Although they had their ebbs and flows, the ‘Kohinoor’ couple stuck onto each other thereafter.

We have heard about Bollywood actors falling into love and leaving their partners. Here’s a story that shows us some are meant for each other.

Sunil Dutt and Nargis 

How did they meet?

This love story is no less than a film in itself. Nargis and Sunil Dutt met on the sets of Do Bigha Zameen (1953) during the mid-1950s.

For Dutt, it was love at first sight.

Sunil Dutt had just begun his career, while Nargis was a well-known name. Thus, he couldn’t garner enough courage to express his feelings.

As filmy as it gets, Nargis got trapped in a pile of fire while shooting for one of their popular movies.

Usually, during the shoot, Bollywood actors are guarded when they perform stunts. The lover boy, without any protection, immediately jumped into the fire to save her.

That’s how the fire got ignited between the two of them!

When did they get married?

They played the role of mother and son in the film Mother India (1957).

To avoid hampering its release, the duo got secretly married in 1958. They made it official in the year 1959.

Kids

The couple is blessed with three children – Namrata, Priya and Sanjay Dutt.

Films they have appeared in

Mother India (1957) and Yaadein (1964).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Post-marriage, this award-winning actress seldom appeared in movies, shifting her focus on family. Nargis was also associated with numerous charitable organisations.

In 1980, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Few days before her son Sanjay Dutt’s debut in 1981, she passed away.

In an interview, her daughter Namrata clarified that she had recovered from cancer, but died of urinary tract infection.

Apart from his performance in Mother India (1957), Sunil Dutt gave some remarkable performances in movies like Gumrah (1963), Waqt (1965), Humraaz (1967) and Padosan (1968).

In 1984, he joined politics. Among other Bollywood actors who entered politics, Dutt earned great respect from people as well as his party leader.

In 2004, he served as Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports. He passed away due to cardiac arrest in 2005.

Nargis was dear to Dutt. On her demise, he suffered from depression. Both were always dependent on each other for the smallest of decisions.

They shared an endearing bond that was witnessed by their children.

Dev Anand and Kalpana Kartik

How did they meet?

Amongst the yesteryear Bollywood actors, Dev Anand, is known for his romantic zeal and infectious enthusiasm. Kalpana Kartik, a newcomer, was smitten by his charismatic aura.

In a popular TV talk show, Dev Anand disclosed that the two fell in love with each other on the sets of Baazi (1951).

This was the first movie of Navketan – a production company of Anand Brothers and also marked the beginning of Kalpana’s career in Bollywood.

When did they get married?

During their courtship, Dev Anand realised that Kalpana was THE ONE. The pair made an impromptu decision to secretly get married on sets of the movie Taxi Driver in 1954.

In a talk show, the evergreen star asserted that he was ready with the ring in his pocket during a film’s shoot.

Voila! During lunch, the love birds tied the knot. He strongly believed that marriage is a personal affair and not a societal event.

Kids

They have two children – Suneil Anand (who currently runs Navketan Films) and Devina Anand.

Films they have appeared in

Baazi (1951), Aandhiyan (1952), Taxi Driver (1954), House No 44 (1955) and Nau do Gyarah (1957).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Dev Anand was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2001 and Dadasaheb Phalke award in 2002. He bagged ample awards for his films along with several national and international recognitions.

He was one of the most flamboyant and versatile Bollywood actors during his time.

The casanova star, Dev Anand, who easily went weak on his knees was rumoured to be dating a few women, engaging in flings even after marriage.

The actor has confessed the same in his autobiography titled ‘Romancing Life’. He nowhere mentions or speaks about his relationship with his wife during those times.

In 2011, he succumbed to death due to a cardiac arrest in London. He was there for a medical check-up as well as the UK launch of his superhit movie, Hum Dono (1961), in colour.

Former ‘Miss Shimla’, Kalpana Kartik was introduced to the Indian Film industry in 1951. She quit films after Nau do Gyarah in 1957 when she was barely six films old.

As of today, she is living a quiet life with her children and grandchildren in Mumbai. She has indulged herself in spiritualism and is an ardent reader of classic literature.

On Anand’s death, Kalpana remarked in an interview with a leading newspaper that Dev Anand was a very caring husband and father.

He is very much in her heart, smiling and guiding her like always.

Dharmendra and Hema Malini

How did they meet?

To lead a happy life, follow your heart. Going through Dharmendra and Hema Malini’s love story explains just that.

Dharam ji and the Dream Girl met on the sets of Tum Haseen Main Jawaan in 1970. At that time, he was a married man and a father of four. She was a few films old.

Sparks flew and they couldn’t control their feelings for each other.

When did they get married?

Hema ji was not keen to get involved with a married man and so weren’t her parents.

According to Hema’s authorised biography – ‘Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl’, her mother had made all the arrangements to get her married to Jeetendra.

In no time, the drunk lover rushed to the wedding location and pleaded Ms Malini to not commit such a big mistake. We all know Malini’s decision.

Dharmendra’s then-wife was not ready to divorce him. This decision of hers didn’t budge him from getting married to the love of his life.

Despite all odds; Dharmendra’s first wife, his kids, his parents, Hema’s family, they decided to get married in 1980.

The duo converted to Islam. The nikah took place on 21 August 1979. They kept it a secret. Later, they got married in Tamil Iyengar style.

Kids

The bold and beautiful couple have two kids together – Esha and Ahana Deol.

Films they have appeared in

The pair has acted in almost 32 films together. Some of their outstanding performances can be seen in movies like Tum Haseen Main Jawaan (1970), Sharafat (1970), Sholay (1975) and Seeta Aur Geeta (1972).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Popularly known as the ‘HE-MAN’ of Bollywood, Dharmendra gave his debut in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere.

Unlike other Bollywood actors who were quite choosy, he is one such phenomenon who never degraded the kind of roles that he got.

This handsome personality has received countless accolades and recognition in Bollywood. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his cinematic performance in 2012.

He set up a production company – Vijayta Films in 1983. His sons – Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol were launched under this banner. Abhay Deol also began his career under the same banner.

He served as MP, Lok Sabha representing Bikaner, Rajasthan from 2004-2009.

Hema Malini started her acting career in a Tamil film in 1962. The Dream Girl has played a protagonist in abundant Bollywood movies. The marital knot could not stop her from acting.

She continued with her dancing and television performances as well. The graceful lady was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2000. She also plays an active role in Indian politics.

The couple leads a content life today and has been there for each other through thick and thin.

Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna

How did they meet?

This pleasing couple met during the photoshoot for Filmfare magazine. For the jovial and outstanding martial artist, it was love at first sight.

It was in 1999, during an outdoor shoot for their movie, International Khiladi (1999) that the duo started dating.

When did they get married?

Gorgeous Twinkle comes from a filmy background. In a Popular TV Talk show, she divulged that she was very confident of the release of Mela, in 2000.

On Akshay’s proposal, she told him that if the movie flopped, she would marry him. In 2001, the impulsive couple, who started their relationship as a fling, finally took the next step.

Kids

This sweet and salty couple has two kids – Aarav and Nitara.

Films they have appeared in

The duo came together for the first time in International Khiladi (1999) followed by Zulmi (1999).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

The ‘Khiladi’ actor is a self-made man. Akshay also believes in performing all his stunts himself for all his movies.

This Padmashree and Filmfare award winner has great comic sense and timing on-screen. Off-screen, he is an amazing human being, an adorable husband and father.

He was ranked as 4th in Forbes list of highest-paid actors in 2019, owning a net worth of $65 million (£52,362,375.00).

Where the image we have about Bollywood actors being party freaks, he broke the stereotype. With his disciplined lifestyle and workout regimes, he has been inspiring many to stay fit and healthy.

Gorgeous as she looks, this actress-turned-columnist is quick-witted and intelligent. Twinkle is also an interior designer, producer and Twitter humorist.

She has authored some best sellers named ‘Mrs. Funnybones’, ‘Pyjamas are Forgiving’ and ‘The Legend of Lakshmi Prasad’.

In an interview with Filmfare, the shy Akshay appraises Twinkle as a source of his strength, emotional support and a lucky charm.

Twinkle, too, is never short of words to express her love for her charming soul mate.

Ritiesh Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza 

How did they meet?

Ever heard of puppy love? This couple aptly fits into the description.

Genelia was 16, a college student, and Riteish, 24, was an architect. They met in 2002 as a consequence of being cast for their debut film, Tujhe Meri Kasam.

Before they met, Genelia had inhibitions that Riteish would be a spoilt brat (being the Chief Minister’s son).

This misconception cleared as the two became best of friends on sets, discussing architecture and college exams.

When did they get married?

The official proposal never actually happened. They were so comfortable with each other that they continued their friendship for almost a decade.

It was in early 2012 that they decided to get married. The marriage took place as per Hindu traditions, followed by a Christian wedding the next day.

Kids

This cute couple has two sons – Riaan and Rahyl.

Films they have appeared in

Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003), Masti (2004), Tere Naal Love Hogaya (2012) and Lai Bhaari  (Marathi, 2014).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Coming from a political non-filmy background, Riteish believed he didn’t have those filmstar looks that the glam world seeks. Surprisingly, he still thinks so!

This made him fear that people would shun away and laugh off on his ambition of being an actor.

As they rightly say, ‘Destiny can only be delayed, but it cannot be denied’ holds true in his case. He has left people spellbound with his acting skills, especially in comic and villainous roles.

He heads Mumbai Film Company Private Limited since 2010. He gave some outstanding performances in Marathi cinema as well.

The bubbly Genelia, did her first commercial advertisement when she was 15. This brought her recognition and she was offered a role in Bollywood.

Later, she gained credit and fame through South Indian films. She has been a brand ambassador of various brands. Post-marriage, she shifted her focus to family and kids.

Over time, getting married to your best friend, who wipes your tears and cries with you, is one of the best things this fairytale couple discovered about each other.

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor

How did they meet?

Kareena had given some great hits at the beginning of her career. In 2007, she was struggling to get appropriate roles. When she met Saif, she was mulling over her acting career in Bollywood.

Saif was an established actor. The Royal Nawab was separated from his first wife, Amrita Singh in 2004.

Whilst it was not the first time that they met on the sets of Tashan, the couple bonded pretty well during this meet. And as we see, they bonded for life.

When did they get married?

Saif having an upfront and bold persona – a typical Nawab of Pataudi, did not shy away from seeking permission from Bebo’s parents to marry her.

After dating for a few years, the sizzling couple got married in a private affair in 2012. It was a registered marriage, no saath pheras or nikah namas.

Their love and marriage broke all the barriers of culture, religion and age.

Kids

The couple has an adorable child, Taimur Ali Khan Pataudi. This young lad gets all the attention from the paparazzi.

Films they have appeared in

In LOC Kargil (2003), Omkara (2006) the duo was not paired against each other. In Tashan (2008), Kurbaan (2009) and Agent Vinod (2012), the pair played the role of protagonists.

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Saif Ali Khan commenced his Bollywood career in 1993. He was unable to impress the audience in the 90s.

Saif’s graph distinctly rose due to his exemplary performance in movies like Dil Chahta Hai (2001) and Kal Ho Na Ho (2003).

Post the advent of this millennium, there was no looking back for Khan. He has produced successful firms under the banner Illuminati Films.

Not many may be aware, Saif is also an excellent guitarist.

The Nawabi Khan has been honoured with the Padma Shri and Rajiv Gandhi awards. Recently, he performed in a thriller series on Netflix.

Kareena Kapoor began her career in 2000. Her acting was critically acclaimed by the audience in 2004 in the movie Chameli. She has given excellent performances in comedy and drama.

Confident and gorgeous Kareena is a brand ambassador for many beauty brands. The multi-talented actor also hosts a radio show titled What Women Want. She has contributed as a co-writer to three books.

Being a fashionista, she has also started her line of cosmetics and clothing.

Marriage has not changed the couple’s professional lives. They try to balance out the odds. Even during her pregnancy, the beautiful diva gave goals to all the pregnant women around.

Kareena revealed in an interview that she had agreed to marry Saif on a condition that she will get all his support for her work after marriage.

Saif is keeping his promise and the duo gives us major couple goals.

Ajay Devgn and Kajol

How did they meet?

Ever heard of the phrase ‘Opposites attract?’ Going through the story of Ajay Devgn and Kajol will give you such feels.

The couple met on the sets of Hulchul in 1995. Oddly, during the initial days, the lead actors did not get along at all. She was outspoken and assertive. He was quiet and observant.

Both were involved in their respective relationships during that time. It was only during the shoot that Kajol realised that Ajay is worth the keep.

Two years later, they started dating each other. This was when both were out of their respective relationships.

When did they get married?

The duo dated for about 4 years before getting married in 1999. The wedding took place at Ajay’s residence. He, being a private person, did not want media attention.

In an interview, Kajol spilt the beans stating that they had misguided the media by providing the wrong venue.

It was a traditional Maharashtrian wedding. Rituals were performed as per Punjabi traditions as well.

Kids

This combination of salt and spice have two wonderful kids together – Nysa and Yug.

Films they have appeared in

The couple has done almost ten films together. Ishq (1997), Pyaar Toh Hona Hi Tha (1998), Raju Chacha (2000), U Me Aur Hum (2008), Tanhaji – The Unsung Warrior (2020) and more.

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Honoured with the Padma Shri, Ajay Devgn is one of the most intense Bollywood actors in Hindi cinema. He has been associated with more than 100 films. He started his journey in 1991.

At the onset, many thought he might fit into roles belonging to the genre of action or drama. He has amazed his audiences with comic roles too.

Ajay has established a production and distribution company – Ajay Devgn FFilms in 2000. Many successful films have been produced under this banner.

He has also incorporated a visual effects company – NY VFXWAALA. It has been recognized at the National Film Awards for its special effects.

The very chirpy and smiling Kajol is known for her positive vibes. She was 16 when she began her career in 1992. The diva was also honoured with the Padma Shri.

Not many know that she dropped out of education after this opportunity. She believes she received this offer out of pure luck.

Her focus has only been films since then. She has absolutely no highs about herself and is a girl next door.

Some of her magnifique works include Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001).

Post-marriage, Kajol got selective with her roles. She declared her comeback in 2006 with Fanaa.

She holds a managerial position at Devgn Entertainment and Software Ltd and other companies incorporated by the Devgn family.

Both husband and wife like to keep their lives private. No starry airs. Opposites do attract and we now know it is the support and understanding that matters.

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone

How did they meet?

The electrifying couple met at an award function in Macau in 2012. The actor was mesmerised by Deepika’s looks. As far as Bollywood actors go, for this actor, it was love at first sight.

Deepika was not ready for commitment. Within six months of casual dating, she fathomed that she had emotionally invested in the relationship. Ranveer too was sure that she was ‘The One’.

In an interview, she recalls that it was during the shoot of the film Ram-Leela that their connection grew solid.

Conspicuously, the entire crew of the film felt it. The same chemistry sputtered on-screen. That’s how it began. The duo always kept the relationship under wraps.

When did they get married?

After dating for about six years, the oh-so-lovely couple had a breathtaking wedding ceremony at Lake Como in Italy.

The event was held in November 2018 as per Konkani and Sikh traditions.

Kids

None yet.

Films they have appeared in

Goliyon ki Rasleela Ram-Leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015) and Padmaavat (2018).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

Ranveer initiated his career in 2010 with Yash Raj Films. He desired to be an actor since childhood.

Amongst Bollywood actors who have shown their vocal skills, this talented actor went a step ahead by taking on rap music.

Ranked as the 5th highest-paid actor by Forbes in 2019, this vibrant actor has a unique sense of style.

He endorses several brands like Make My Trip, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bingo, Xiaomi, JBL, Manyavar, Adidas, Vivo, Jack and Jones and so on.

His brand value is $63 million (£50,704,605.00) as reported by a leading news column in 2018.

A national-level badminton champ, Deepika has worked as a child model.

Before entering Bollywood, this sleek beauty had worked in 15-20 ad campaigns, modelling assignments and a music video for Himesh Reshammiya’s song.

The scintillating model made her debut in 2006 in a Kannada movie. It was in 2007 that she got a break in Bollywood.

She is also considered a style icon in India. Owing to this, she has started her line of clothing. She has done a Hollywood movie too titled, xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017).

Deepika is associated with charitable organisations that promote feminism and helps deal with depression.

The crazy in love couple keeps us posted with their activities on social media and few cute romantic gestures that make us go ‘aweee…’!

Karan Singh Grover and Bipasha Basu 

How did they meet?

The couple who term it as ‘Monkey Love’ met in 2014 on the sets of their horror film – Alone. Karan and Bipasha got along pretty well from day one.

There was news regarding their alleged relationship. It was disregarded as a promotional strategy. Regardless, the couple continued to spend quality time with each other and paint the town red.

Karan proposed Bipasha in Koh Samui under the sparkling lights of New Year crackers with a ring. So that was it. The story officially began for the two of them.

When did they get married?

Karan and Bipasha were tight-lipped about their bond until they announced their marriage. The couple wed in 2016.

The pictures of the ceremonies are so overwhelming that someone who doesn’t believe in the union of marriage would start believing in one.

The Monkey couple looked happy and exhilarated to start a new beginning.

Kids

None yet.

Films they have appeared in

Alone (2015).

Status in Bollywood as an Individual and as a Couple

‘A fitness freak’ as Karan addresses himself, has bagged the title of ‘Most Popular Model’ in Gladrags Manhunt Contest.

This budding Bollywood actor got due acknowledgement for his roles in Indian Television series – Dill Mill Gayye (2007) and Qubool Hai (2012). Karan has been one of the highest-paid television actors.

He started his filmy career in 2015 with films like Alone (2015) and Hate Story 3 (2015). Recently, Grover has been in the news due to multiple short-lived marriages before marrying Bipasha.

Bipasha began her career in acting in 2001. Her performances in Jism (2003) and Corporate (2006) have been critically acclaimed. She has also given notable acts in comedy movies.

Basu was in news for her long-time live-in relationship with actor and co-star John Abraham. Being a fitness enthusiast, she features in several fitness videos.

The loveable couple believes in living in the moment, giving us major travel and couple goals.

From age-old couples to the modern ones, all of them have had their share of ups and downs.

As much as they leave a mark in our hearts with their movies, these Bollywood actors have left an impression with their real-life stories too.

Bollywood actors have made us believe that to sustain in any relationship, it takes efforts, time, understanding, trust and most importantly, love.