Padma Awards 2026: Hema Malini receives Padma Vibhushan for Late actor Dharmendra
Padma Awards 2026: Legendary actor Dharmendra was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan by President Droupadi Murmu. His wife and BJP MP Hema Malini accepted the honour on behalf of the late actor for his contribution to the field of Arts.
The late legendary actor Dharmendra was posthumously honoured with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan by President Droupadi Murmu for his outstanding contribution to the field of Arts. The award, India’s second-highest civilian honour, recognises exceptional and distinguished service to the nation.
At the grand Padma Awards 2026 ceremony, actor and BJP MP Hema Malini accepted the honour on behalf of her late husband. The emotional moment left many in attendance deeply moved.
As Hema Malini’s name was announced, she greeted the audience with folded hands before walking towards the stage with tears in her eyes to receive the prestigious award from the President. Her daughter, Ahana Deol, who accompanied her at the ceremony, was also seen overcome with emotion while remembering her father.
Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated stars, passed away in November last year at the age of 89. With a career spanning more than six decades, he remained an enduring icon of Indian cinema and was admired for his memorable performances across generations.
The Padma Awards are among the country’s highest civilian honours and recognise extraordinary contributions in fields such as art, literature, science, medicine, sports, cinema, public affairs, and social service.
The Civil Investiture Ceremony brought together distinguished personalities, senior ministers, dignitaries, and achievers from across the nation to celebrate excellence and service in various fields.
- PTC PUNJABI
