"Really happy": Esha Deol on Dharmendra's Padma Vibhushan honour, hails brother Sunny Deol in 'Border 2'
Mumbai, January 26
Esha Deol expressed pride and joy as her father, the legendary Dharmendra, was honoured with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan.
Taking to her Instagram handle, Esha Deol wrote, "Happy Republic Day. Really happy that our papa is being conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan Award."
Further in the post, Esha also hailed her elder brother, Sunny Deol's performance in 'Border 2'.
"Definitely watch 'Border 2' with your family and friends. We watched the film last night@iamsunnydeol you are the best. Shout out to @ahan.shetty @varundvn @diljitdosanjh @nidhiduttaofficial fantastic. Salute," he added.
To wrap up her post, Esha also added pictures, showing her posing with her sister Ahana and brother Sunny at the screening of his film 'Border 2'.
They all shared smiles, with Sunny standing between the two sisters, his hands resting gently on their shoulders. This marks their first public appearance together since their dad, veteran actor Dharmendra, passed away last year.
On the eve of Republic Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) unveiled the official list of Padma awardees for 2026. 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.
Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, has been conferred with Padma Vibhushan posthumously.
Reacting to the announcement, Veteran actor-politician Hema Malini expressed pride and gratitude, saying, "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."
Dharmendra, widely regarded as one of the most iconic actors of his time, made his mark in Hindi cinema with memorable performances in films like 'Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke', 'Sholay', 'Chupke Chupke', 'Ayee Milan Ki Bela', and 'Anupama', among others. He was known not only for his versatility on screen but also for his contributions to the film industry and for inspiring millions of fans worldwide.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Padma Vibhushan is the highest honour. While it's great he got it, it feels a bit late, no? He should have been recognized much earlier when he was with us. Still, better late than never. Jai Hind!
Watched Border 2 yesterday! Sunny Deol was fantastic, full of patriotism. Perfect film for Republic Day. The family's support for each other is lovely to see.
As someone who grew up watching his films with my parents, this news brings back so many memories. A fitting tribute to an actor who shaped Indian cinema.
Respectfully, the article says this is their first public appearance since their dad passed away. But the focus quickly shifts to promoting a film. The honour should be the main story, not the movie plug.
He was the original 'He-Man' of Bollywood! From Sholay to life, he lived with such grace. This Padma Vibhushan honours not just his films, but the man he was. 🙏
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