Apne Director Anil Sharma On Dharmendra’s Padma Vibhushan: ‘Wish This Honour Had Come Earlier’

Legendary actor Dharmendra has been posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, for his unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema. The announcement triggered an outpouring of tributes from across the film industry, with actors, filmmakers and fans remembering the iconic “He-Man” of Bollywood and celebrating his lasting legacy.

Joining the voices paying tribute was filmmaker Anil Sharma, who directed Dharmendra in the 2007 family drama Apne, also starring Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. In a heartfelt post, Sharma reflected on the honour while expressing a poignant wish that the veteran actor had been alive to accept it himself.

Anil Sharma’s Emotional Tribute To Dharmendra

In a post shared by the Gadar 2 director, Anil Sharma wrote, “Heartfelt congratulations

to every admirer of @aapkadharam ji on his #PadmaVibhushan.”

He further added, “One only wishes this honour had come earlier, when he could have accepted it himself… the joy would have been immeasurable. Yet the truth remains… some legacies rise above awards. The love, respect, and admiration Dharam ji received from generations is far greater than any title , medal or any award.”

Sharma’s words resonated deeply with fans, many of whom echoed the sentiment that Dharmendra’s impact on cinema far surpassed any official recognition.

Tributes Pour In From Family And Industry

Veteran actor and politician Hema Malini also marked the moment with a heartfelt note on X (formerly Twitter). She wrote, “I’m so, so proud that the government has given Dharam ji the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to honor his huge contributions to the film industry.” Dharmendra had earlier received the Padma Bhushan in 2012.

Dharmendra began his cinematic journey in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere at the age of 24. After early roles in films like Bandini, Ayee Milan Ki Bela and Kaajal, his breakthrough came with the 1965 war drama Haqeeqat. Over the decades, he delivered iconic hits such as Anupama, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and Dharam Veer, dominating the box office from the 1960s through the 1980s.

Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2021, at the age of 89. Though the honour came posthumously, the Padma Vibhushan stands as a reminder of a legacy that continues to live on through his films, his family, and generations of admirers.