Media365
Indian cinema legend Dharmendra was honoured with the highest Padma honour, Padma Vibhushan, posthumously. The first phase of the 66th Padma Awards ceremony was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital on Monday. The actor’s wife and actress Hema Malini received the honour on his behalf. Hema Malini was accompanied by her daughter Ahana Deol, who got visibly emotional as her father was honoured.
Dharmendra was honoured for his exceptional contribution to the field of arts. 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. Out of the 131 awardees this year, only 66 were honoured in the first phase of the Padma awards held in the National Capital today.
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.
Also Read: Dharmendra’s Daughter Cries Inconsolably On Padma Vibhushan Honour
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. On November 24, 2025, he breathed his last at the age of 89.
