Veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra has been honoured posthumously with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in the Padma Awards 2026 announced on the eve of Republic Day. This recognition reflects his six-decade-long impact on Indian cinema, where he was loved as the charismatic “He-Man” of Bollywood.
Padma Awards 2026: Honour for a Legendary Career
The Ministry of Home Affairs unveiled the 131 recipients of the Padma Awards 2026, spanning Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri honours across fields including arts, public affairs, science and sports. Among the five individuals chosen for the Padma Vibhushan is the late Dharmendra Singh Deol, recognised for his exceptional contribution to the art of Indian cinema over generations.
Dharmendra passed away on 24 November 2025 at the age of 89, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of iconic performances and memorable characters that helped shape Bollywood’s golden era.
A Legacy Defined by Versatility and Impact
Known to millions simply as Dharmendra, he began his film career in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and went on to become one of Indian cinema’s most influential leading men. Over the years, he delivered unforgettable performances in classics such as Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke, Mera Gaon Mera Desh and Seeta Aur Geeta, establishing himself as both an action star and a versatile actor.
His contributions were not limited to box-office success; Dharmendra’s ability to connect with audiences across generations made him a true cultural icon whose work influenced filmmakers, actors and fans alike.
Family and Industry React
Following the announcement, Dharmendra’s family and colleagues reacted emotionally on social media. His wife, Hema Malini, expressed pride and gratitude, saying that while they wished he could have received the honour in person, the award was a fitting tribute to his immense contribution to Indian cinema.
Industry figures also shared their respect and admiration:
- Actors Jr NTR and Mahesh Babu led tributes from the Southern film fraternity, praising Dharmendra’s legacy and his influence on Indian cinema.
- Director Anil Sharma, who worked with Dharmendra on several films, noted that the actor deserved the honour much earlier, expressing a sentiment shared by many fans and colleagues.
A Fitting Tribute to a Cinema Great
The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service in any field, and Dharmendra’s inclusion among this year’s recipients underscores his lasting impact not only on Indian cinema but on cultural imagination as a whole.
His award joins other notable honourees in 2026, such as former Kerala Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan (also posthumous Padma Vibhushan), Mammootty and Alka Yagnik (Padma Bhushan) and R. Madhavan (Padma Shri), highlighting a year rich with recognition for contributions in cinema and the arts.
Final Take
Dharmendra’s posthumous Padma Vibhushan is a national affirmation of the depth and breadth of a career that entertained and inspired millions. Even in his absence, the honour celebrates a life dedicated to storytelling and performance — one that helped define modern Indian cinema and will continue to influence generations of audiences and artists.
