Anil Sharma Reflects on Dharmendra's Padma Vibhushan Honor, Hails Him as a Legend Above Awards
Filmmaker Anil Sharma has shared heartfelt memories and admiration for Bollywood icon Dharmendra, following the actor's posthumous conferral of the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award. In an emotional statement, Sharma expressed his deep respect for the late star, emphasizing that Dharmendra's legacy stands far beyond any formal recognition.
Sharma's Tribute to a Cinematic Legend
Speaking to the media, Anil Sharma reminisced about Dharmendra, stating, "I remember him a lot. I even tweeted yesterday. I wish he had won the award earlier. He would have been very happy. He would have accepted the award. But Dharamji is a legend, and some legends are above awards and titles. Dharmendra himself is an award." This sentiment echoes a post Sharma made on social media platform X on January 26, where he congratulated all admirers of Dharmendra on the Padma Vibhushan honor, while noting that the joy would have been immeasurable had it come earlier, during the actor's lifetime.
Posthumous Recognition and Legacy
Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, was honored with the Padma Vibhushan as part of the Republic Day 2026 awards announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This prestigious award recognizes individuals from various fields, including arts, literature, social service, medicine, education, and public service, for their exceptional contributions to society. Dharmendra's illustrious career had already been acknowledged with accolades such as the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012.
Call for Further Honors
Anil Sharma, known for directing films like 'Gadar', further advocated for Dharmendra to receive additional recognition, stating, "He deserves the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and the Bharat Ratna as well. It would have been really great if he had received these awards while he was alive." This highlights the filmmaker's belief in Dharmendra's unparalleled impact on Indian cinema and culture.
Dharmendra's Enduring Cinematic Journey
Widely regarded as one of the most iconic actors in Bollywood history, Dharmendra made his mark with memorable performances in films such as 'Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke', 'Sholay', 'Chupke Chupke', 'Ayee Milan Ki Bela', and 'Anupama'. His versatility allowed him to excel across genres, including romance, action, comedy, and social drama, contributing to his status as one of the most commercially successful actors in Indian cinema. His last film, 'Ikkis', was released on December 25, 2025, capping a career that inspired millions of fans worldwide.
Dharmendra's journey stands as a testament to enduring talent and unwavering dedication, with his legacy continuing to resonate beyond awards and titles, as echoed by Anil Sharma's poignant tribute.
