Dharmendra honoured posthumously with Padma Vibhushan, wife Hema Malini receives on his behalf
New Delhi, May 25
Actor-BJP MP Hema Malini on Monday evening received Padma Vibhushan on behalf of her late husband, and cinema icon Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025.
President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious award to Hema Malini at the Civil Investiture Ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. During the ceremony, Ahana Deol got emotional when her father Dharmendra's name was announced. She was seated with her husband, Vaibhav Vohra, by her side.
Earlier, speaking to ANI, Hema Malini said the honour was a moment of joy not just for the family but for the entire country.
"It makes us very happy, the entire country is happy. Had it come earlier, Dharmendra ji would have been extremely happy, and seeing him, his fans would have been even happier," she said.
The Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, was conferred on Dharmendra for his exceptional and distinguished service to the arts.
In a previous statement, Hema Malini described the recognition as long overdue."So so proud that the government has recognised Dharam ji's immense contribution to the film industry by bestowing on him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award," she said, expressing gratitude to the Centre for acknowledging his legacy.
Dharmendra, fondly remembered as Hindi cinema's original 'He-Man', passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89, leaving behind a towering legacy spanning over six decades.
Known for his charismatic screen presence, gentle smile and versatility, he was widely regarded as one of the most iconic actors of Indian cinema. His body of work includes classics such as 'Sholay', 'Chupke Chupke', 'Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke', 'Ayee Milan Ki Bela' and 'Anupama'.
The 'He Man' of Indian Cinema had been unwell for some time. On November 10, Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital following a deterioration in his health. Two days later, Dharmendra was discharged from the hospital as the family opted for home treatment. Sadly, on November 24, 2025, he breathed his last at the age of 89.
On the eve of Republic Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) unveiled the official list of Padma awardees for 2026, and on May 25, the awards were presented to the recipients at the ceremony.
The prestigious civilian honours recognise individuals from diverse fields, including arts, literature, social service, medicine, education and public service, for their excellence, dedication and long-term contribution to society.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Was really hoping he'd get this much earlier, especially during his 80s. The man entertained three generations of Indians—from black and white to colour, from action to comedy. Hema Malini receiving it with dignity, and Ahana getting emotional—truly moving. Respect to the Deol family. 🙏
Look, I'm happy for the recognition, but honestly, why do these awards always come so late? Dharmendra was a legend—every single person in India knows his name. He deserved this while he could feel proud. The government needs to fix its award timing system. Still, congratulations to the family. They have every right to feel emotional.
Can't stop thinking about that line from 'Anupama' or his comic timing in 'Chupke Chupke'. He was not just the He-Man of action—he was a complete actor. Sholay is timeless. And what a graceful gesture from Hema Malini ji to collect the award. The entire cinema fraternity must be proud today. ❤️
I remember watching 'Ayee Milan Ki Bela' with my grandmother. She used to say, "Yeh Dharmendra ji toh abhi bhi young lagte hain." And he really did! Even at 89, that charm was intact. The Padma Vibhushan is a well-deserved salute to a lifetime of excellence. The whole country celebrates with the Deol family. 🇮🇳🎥
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