Padma Awards 2026: Hema Malini To Receive Dharmendra's Posthumous Padma Vibhushan, Calls It 'Big Moment'

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2026 Padma Awards ceremony will be an emotional affair for the family of late screen legend Dharmendra. His wife and veteran actor Hema Malini arrived in Delhi to receive the prestigious Padma Vibhushan posthumously. The honour, India’s second-highest civilian award, was announced earlier this year as a tribute to Dharmendra’s extraordinary six decades of contribution to Indian cinema.

It's an emotional moment for the family

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Hema Malini said that receiving Dharmendra's Padma Vibhushan will be an emotional moment for the family. While Esha Deol wanted to join, she couldn't make it. Ahana Deol, Dharmendra and Hema's younger daughter, will be attending the ceremony. "Sunny and Bobby both are aware, and we are all entirely happy, and it's a big moment for all of us," she said.

Dharmendra's iconic movies

Throughout his six-decade career, Dharmendra delivered some of the most memorable films in Indian cinema. Famously renowned as the 'He-Man of Bollywood,' he effortlessly balanced action, romance and comedy, becoming one of the industry’s most loved superstars. Among his most iconic films is Sholay, where his portrayal of the charming and fearless Veeru became legendary. He also won hearts in romantic classics like Satyakam and Chupke Chupke, showcasing his impeccable comic timing and emotional depth. Dharmendra’s powerful performances in films such as Phool Aur Patthar, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and Seeta Aur Geeta further cemented his place as a versatile star. He was equally admired for action-packed entertainers like Jugnu, Dharam Veer and The Burning Train.

Padma Awards 2026 ceremony

The grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan will be attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with several ministers, diplomats, artists and distinguished guests from across the country.

Padma Awards 2026 recepients

Renowned actor Satish Shah will be posthumously awarded the Padma Shri, who is remembered fondly for his beloved shows like Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and films such as Main Hoon Na. R. Madhavan, known for films like 3 Idiots and Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, will also receive his Padma Shri. Playback Singer Alka Yagnik will also receive her Padma Shri for exemplary contribution in the field of indian cinema and music. Throughout the year, she has made a name for herself through her voice in many Bollywood movies, such as Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal from the movie Sajan and agar tum sath ho from Tamasha.