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Ayush Srivastava
Ayush Srivastava is a seasoned Sub Editor at India.com (Zee Media), where he specializes in the high-octane world of global entertainment. With more than four years of experience in the media industry ... Read More
Bollywood legend Dharmendra has been posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan as part of the Padma Awards 2026. The announcement brought emotional reactions from fans across the country. His wife, actor and politician Hema Malini, shared her pride soon after the news was made public.
Soon after the Padma Awards list was announced, Hema Malini took to social media to express her feelings. Celebrating the recognition given to her late husband, she wrote in a heartfelt note, “So so proud that the govt has recognised Dharam ji’s immense contribution to the film industry by bestowing on him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award.” Her message touched many fans who continue to admire Dharmendra’s work.
At the highest civilian level, the Padma Vibhushan will be conferred on five individuals this year. Dharmendra Singh Deol has been awarded the honour posthumously for his exceptional contribution to Indian cinema. The recognition stands as a tribute to his long and influential career that helped shape Hindi films over several decades.
The other Padma Vibhushan recipients this year include former Supreme Court judge K T Thomas for Public Affairs, acclaimed classical violinist N Rajam for Art, educationist and academic P Narayanan for Literature and Education, and veteran political leader V S Achuthanandhan for Public Affairs, who has also been honoured posthumously.
Hema Malini and Dharmendra were one of the most celebrated pairs in Indian cinema, both individually and together on screen. They shared memorable chemistry in films such as Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, Dream Girl, Jugnu, Charas, The Burning Train and Dillagi, which remain popular even today.
Dharmendra was admired for his powerful and versatile performances, earning the title of Bollywood’s original He-Man, while Hema Malini, known as the Dream Girl, won hearts with her grace and expressive acting. Their bond, built on shared passion for cinema and mutual respect, made them an iconic couple across generations.
Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, bringing an end to a remarkable six-decade journey in cinema. He was admired for his strong screen presence as well as his ability to portray emotional and relatable characters.
He starred in several landmark films including Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, Chupke Chupke and Mera Gaon Mera Desh. His final film appearance was in Ikkis, helmed by Sriram Raghavan, released earlier this year, which marked the closing chapter of a career filled with memorable performances.
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