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Anil Sharma: Dharmendra Deserved Padma Vibhushan Sooner to Accept Himself

Veteran actor Dharmendra has been posthumously conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award. Filmmaker Anil Sharma, who directed him, expressed a heartfelt wish that the honor had come while Dharmendra was alive to accept it himself. Dharmendra's wife, Hema Malini, and daughter, Esha Deol, shared proud and emotional reactions to the recognition on social media. The legendary actor passed away in November 2023 at the age of 89.

Key Points: Anil Sharma on Dharmendra's Posthumous Padma Vibhushan Honor

  • Dharmendra posthumously awarded Padma Vibhushan
  • Anil Sharma expresses heartfelt wish for earlier honor
  • Hema Malini thanks government for recognition
  • Esha Deol shares happiness for her father's award
2 min read

Anil Sharma believes Dharmendra deserved Padma Vibhushan earlier: 'Could have accepted it himself'

Filmmaker Anil Sharma wishes Dharmendra received the Padma Vibhushan earlier, while Hema Malini and Esha Deol share pride in the late actor's honor.

"One only wishes this honour had come earlier, when he could have accepted it himself... - Anil Sharma"

Mumbai, Jan 27

Late actor Dharmendra has been posthumously awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan for his contribution to the film industry.

As congratulatory messages pour in for the 'He-Man' of Bollywood, filmmaker Anil Sharma, who worked with Dharmendra in the 2007 release "Apne" penned a heartfelt note remembering the legendary actor.

The director said that he wished that Dharmendra had been bestowed with the prestigious honor earlier, so that he could have accepted the Padma Vibhushan himself.

Taking to his official X (Earlier known as Twitter) handle, Anil Sharma penned, "Heartfelt congratulations to every admirer of @aapkadharam ji on his #PadmaVibhushan."

"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," the 'Gadar' maker added.

Several members of the entertainment industry flooded social media with congratulatory messages.

Veteran actress and politician Hema Malini expressed gratitude to the Government for conferring the Padma Vibhushan award on her late husband, Dharmendra.

She wrote on the micro-blogging site, "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".

Additionally, Dharmendra's daughter and actress Esha Deol also expressed her delight in a special post that read, "Really happy that our papa is being conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan Award (folded hands emoji)."

Dharmendra was admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai after he complained of breathing difficulties. However, he was later discharged after receiving the required treatment.

After his health deteriorated once again, Dharmendra was reportedly put on a ventilator. He passed away on November 24 at the age of 89.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Better late than never, but why does it always take so long? Our film icons often get these national recognitions only in their later years or after they're gone. The system needs to be more proactive.
S
Sarah B
Watching his movies with my grandparents was a ritual. He wasn't just an actor; he was a part of our family memories. This Padma Vibhushan honors that legacy. A true He-Man indeed.
A
Arjun K
While I'm happy for the recognition, I respectfully disagree with the sentiment that it's "too late." The award celebrates a lifetime of work. His family and fans can cherish it. The man himself knew the love he had. That was his real award.
K
Karthik V
From Sholay to Apne, his journey was incredible. A simple, humble man from Punjab who became a superstar. This award is a fitting tribute from the nation. Jai Ho, Dharam ji!
M
Michael C
It's interesting to see how these civilian awards work in India. The posthumous honor seems to carry a different emotional weight. His contribution to Indian cinema is undeniable, on a global scale.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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