More than two years after announcing her separation from businessman Bharat Takhtani, actor Esha Deol has spoken candidly about life after divorce, admitting that while she continues to believe deeply in love, it is something she currently misses. The actor also reflected on how witnessing the enduring bond between her parents, veteran stars Hema Malini and Dharmendra, shaped her understanding of relationships and romance from an early age.
In a recent interview, Esha was asked whether her experiences, including heartbreak and the end of her marriage, had changed her idea of love. The actor responded that they had not. Instead, she said love and romance remain among the most important aspects of life, adding that they are something she currently misses. Describing herself as someone who enjoys romantic films, songs and stories, Esha said she has always been a “complete rom-com person” at heart.
Although she acknowledged the emotional void left by the absence of romance, Esha made it clear that she has not become cynical about relationships. According to the actor, breakups do not diminish the value of love itself. She believes every relationship teaches important lessons and that painful experiences should not discourage people from remaining open to love in the future.
Speaking about the origins of her romantic outlook, Esha credited her parents for setting an example she continues to cherish. She said growing up around Hema Malini and Dharmendra allowed her to witness unconditional affection and mutual respect firsthand. The actor described her father as someone who remains deeply special to her and said the love shared by her parents continues to influence the way she views relationships today.
Esha married Bharat Takhtani in 2012, and the couple welcomed two daughters, Radhya and Miraya, before announcing their separation in February 2024 after nearly 12 years of marriage. In their joint statement at the time, they described the decision as mutual and amicable while emphasising that the well-being of their daughters would remain their highest priority.
Since the separation, Esha has repeatedly maintained that her relationship with Bharat has evolved rather than ended completely. In earlier interviews, she rejected the label of “single mother”, explaining that although she is single, she and Bharat continue to function as a team when it comes to raising their daughters. She has often stressed that both parents remain actively involved in their children’s lives and continue to support one another for the sake of their family.
The actor has also revealed that she and Bharat continue to share a cordial bond. They have occasionally been seen together at family gatherings and social occasions, leading many fans to appreciate the mature way in which they have handled co-parenting after their separation. According to Esha, maintaining stability for their daughters has always been more important than dwelling on the past.
Professionally, Esha has been steadily rebuilding her acting career after returning to the screen with projects such as Rudra: The Edge of Darkness and Hunter Tootega Nahi Todega. She has also completed work on the upcoming film Tumko Meri Kasam, signalling a renewed focus on her career alongside her responsibilities as a mother.