Bollywood Legend Dharmendra Honored with Padma Vibhushan Posthumously in 2026 Republic Day Awards
The Government of India has announced the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award for veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra in the 2026 Padma Awards list, revealed on the eve of Republic Day. This recognition comes as a bittersweet moment for the film industry, as the iconic actor passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89.
Anil Sharma's Heartfelt Tribute and Mixed Emotions
Filmmaker Anil Sharma, who collaborated with Dharmendra on acclaimed films including 'Hukumat' and 'Apne', expressed that while the honor is well-deserved, it should have been conferred during the actor's lifetime. Taking to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sharma posted a poignant photograph of Dharmendra along with an emotional message.
"Heartfelt congratulations to every admirer of @aapkadharam ji on his #PadmaVibhushan," wrote Sharma. "One only wishes this honor had come earlier, when he could have accepted it himself... the joy would have been immeasurable. Yet the truth remains... some legacies rise above awards. The love, respect, and admiration Dharam ji received from generations is far greater than any title, medal, or award."
Sharma's tribute highlights the profound impact Dharmendra had on Indian cinema and his enduring legacy that transcends formal recognition.
Dharmendra's Remarkable Journey from Newcomer to Superstar
Dharmendra's acting career began in 1960 with the film 'Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere' when he was just 24 years old. His early years saw him in supporting roles in successful movies such as:
- 'Bandini'
- 'Ayee Milan Ki Bela'
- 'Kaajal'
The actor's breakthrough arrived with the 1965 war drama 'Haqeeqat', which established him as a box office favorite. He subsequently cemented his position as a leading star through numerous memorable films that have become classics of Indian cinema:
- 'Anupama'
- 'Aadmi Aur Insaan'
- 'Mera Gaon Mera Desh'
- 'Seeta Aur Geeta'
- 'Sholay'
- 'Loafer'
- 'Yaadon Ki Baaraat'
- 'Dharam Veer'
Remembering the Cinematic Legend
Dharmendra breathed his last at his Mumbai residence on November 24, 2025. Just a month prior, the actor had been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital following a brief illness and was recuperating at home. His funeral took place the following day, November 25, in Mumbai, with tributes pouring in from across the film industry as colleagues and fans fondly remembered his remarkable legacy.
The actor's final film, 'Ikkis', was released in theaters on January 1, 2026, adding another chapter to his extensive filmography that spanned over six decades. His passing marked the end of an era in Bollywood, leaving behind a void that will be difficult to fill.
The Padma Vibhushan award, India's second-highest civilian honor, serves as a formal acknowledgment of Dharmendra's immense contributions to Indian cinema. While the recognition arrives posthumously, it underscores the lasting impact of his work and the deep affection he commanded from audiences across generations.
As the entertainment world continues to celebrate his legacy, this honor reinforces Dharmendra's status as one of Bollywood's most beloved and influential figures, whose cinematic journey remains an inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers alike.
