Padma Vibhushan Awarded To Late Dharmendra: Hema Malini Receives The Honour, Ahana Deol Gets Emotional

Veteran

Indian actor Dharmendra was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian honour, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Civil Investiture Ceremony on May 25. His wife and legendary actress Hema Malini received the prestigious award on his behalf. President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Vibhushan to Hema Malini. The moment turned emotional when Dharmendra's name was announced as daughter Ahana Deol was seen in tears, with her husband Vaibhav Vohra sitting beside her for support. Present at the event were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and many other dignitaries.

Hema Malini On Dharmendra Being Awarded Padma Vibhushan

Speaking to ANI, Hema Malini said the honour brought joy to the entire family and the nation. She added that had the award come while Dharmendra was still alive, he would have been overjoyed, and his fans even more so. She had earlier called the recognition long overdue, saying she was proud that the government finally acknowledged his massive contribution to Indian cinema.

Dharmendra was honoured for his exceptional service to the arts, a career that stretched over six decades and included more than 300 films. Widely known as the He-Man of Hindi cinema, he won millions of hearts with his versatility on screen. His films like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Anupama, and Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke remain timeless classics loved by generations. The Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award.The Padma Awards were announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs on the eve of Republic Day 2026. The honours recognise outstanding individuals across fields such as arts, literature, medicine, education, and public service for their lifelong dedication and contribution to society.Dharmendra had been unwell for some time before his passing. He was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on November 10, 2025, after his health declined. He was discharged two weeks later for home treatment, but sadly breathed his last on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89.

Padma Awards 2026

Alongside Dharmendra, Prosenjit Chatterjee was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri Award. He was named alongside distinguished individuals from the fields of art, education, sports, and various other disciplines. The actor-director has worked in over 200 films over three decades of his Indian cinema career.For the occasion, Prosenjit chose a traditional ensemble, consisting of a golden kurta set. He was recently seen in Vijaynagar'er Hirey, which was directed by Chandrasish Ray.(With inputs from ANI)