Dharmendra: India’s film fraternity and admirers across the country have come together to remember veteran actor Dharmendra, who has been posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the nation’s second-highest civilian honor. The recognition acknowledges his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema and his enduring influence on popular culture. The announcement has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, family members, and fans who credit him with shaping generations of Hindi film storytelling.
The Padma Vibhushan is among India’s most prestigious civilian awards, conferred for exceptional and distinguished service. Dharmendra’s inclusion in this year’s list has been widely welcomed as a fitting acknowledgment of a career that spanned more than five decades. Known for his versatility, he earned acclaim in action films, romantic dramas, and socially driven stories, becoming one of Bollywood’s most recognisable faces.
While the honor has been celebrated across the industry, many have noted that the award arrives after his passing, lending the moment a bittersweet note.
Filmmaker Anil Sharma, who directed Dharmendra in the 2007 family drama Apne, shared a personal message recalling the actor’s impact. In a post on social media platform X, Sharma congratulated Dharmendra’s admirers while expressing regret that the honor could not be received by the actor in person.
He wrote that although the Padma Vibhushan is a significant national recognition, Dharmendra’s true achievement lay in the affection and respect he earned from audiences across generations. According to Sharma, that bond surpassed any formal title or medal.
Messages of congratulations and remembrance quickly spread across social media, with actors, directors, and producers highlighting Dharmendra’s professionalism and humility. Many described him as a performer who remained grounded despite immense popularity, often mentoring younger artists and maintaining strong personal relationships within the industry.
The collective response reflected the breadth of his influence, extending beyond box office success to the values he represented on and off screen.
Veteran actress and parliamentarian Hema Malini expressed her appreciation to the Government of India for recognizing her late husband’s work. In her message, she said she felt proud that his immense contribution to cinema had been acknowledged with the Padma Vibhushan.
Her statement resonated with fans who have long regarded the couple as one of Indian cinema’s most prominent partnerships, both professionally and personally.
Dharmendra’s daughter, actor Esha Deol, also marked the occasion with a brief but heartfelt message. She said the family was happy that their father’s achievements were being honored at the national level, reflecting a sense of gratitude shared by those closest to him.
Family members have often spoken about Dharmendra’s dedication to his craft and his continued engagement with cinema even in later years.
In the weeks before his death, Dharmendra had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai after experiencing breathing difficulties. He was discharged following treatment but was later readmitted as his condition worsened. Reports indicated that he was placed on a ventilator during his final days.
Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89, marking the end of an era in Hindi cinema. His death was widely mourned, with memorial messages highlighting not only his film achievements but also his personal warmth and resilience.
As tributes continue, many in the industry have emphasized that while the Padma Vibhushan is a significant milestone, Dharmendra’s legacy is firmly rooted in the memories of audiences who grew up watching his films. The posthumous honor now stands as a formal acknowledgment of a body of work that continues to inspire and entertain.
