Hema Malini accepted the posthumous Padma Vibhushan award for her late husband, Dharmendra, at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 25, 2026 [1].
The ceremony marked a significant moment of national recognition for Dharmendra's contributions to Indian cinema, bringing together his family and state officials in New Delhi [1], [3].
President Droupadi Murmu presented the honor to Malini during the event [2]. The Padma Vibhushan is one of India's highest civilian awards, recognizing exceptional and distinguished service [1].
Ahana Deol, the daughter of Dharmendra and Malini, was emotional during the proceedings. Witnesses said Deol broke down in tears as her mother stepped forward to receive the award on her father's behalf [1], [2], [3].
The event took place in the National Capital, where the family gathered to honor the actor's cinematic legacy [1], [3]. The emotional reaction from Deol underscored the personal weight of the posthumous tribute to the late actor [1], [3].
Malini accepted the award on Monday, ensuring Dharmendra's professional achievements were formally acknowledged by the state [1], [2].
“Hema Malini accepted the posthumous Padma Vibhushan award for her late husband, Dharmendra”
The posthumous awarding of the Padma Vibhushan to Dharmendra signifies the Indian government's formal validation of his impact on the cultural fabric of the country. The public nature of the family's grief, particularly Ahana Deol's reaction, highlights the intersection of celebrity legacy and personal loss during high-state honors.
