Hema Malini Gets Emotional As She Accepts Dharmendra's Posthumous Padma Vibhushan; Ahana Burst Into Tears

Hema Malini accepted the Padma Vibhushan on behalf of Dharmendra at the Padma Awards 2026, drawing emotional reactions from the audience. The actor received the posthumous honour from President Droupadi Murmu, with family members watching the ceremony that recognised Dharmendra's long association with Indian cinema and his influence on film audiences across generations.

The ceremony took place in Delhi, where Hema Malini arrived with daughter Ahana Deol for the national event. Hema Malini wore a light pink saree with detailed embroidery, while Ahana Deol stayed close throughout the function. The atmosphere turned especially emotional when Dharmendra's name was formally announced among this year's Padma Vibhushan award recipients.

Padma Vibhushan award ceremony highlights for Dharmendra and Hema Malini

As the citation was read and Hema Malini's name was called to accept the Padma Vibhushan award for Dharmendra, Hema Malini folded both hands in greeting. With visible tears, Hema Malini stepped onto the stage towards President Droupadi Murmu. Ahana Deol, watching from the audience, also broke down while remembering Dharmendra on this formal yet personal occasion.

Witnesses noted that Ahana Deol appeared overwhelmed, wiping tears repeatedly as Hema Malini received the Padma Vibhushan award. The mother and daughter shared a brief emotional moment after the presentation. Many present linked their reaction to Dharmendra's recent death in November 2025, which had already left colleagues and fans grieving.

Family reactions to Dharmendra's Padma Vibhushan award recognition

Before travelling for the Padma Vibhushan award ceremony, Hema Malini spoke to Hindustan Times about how the honour affected the family. Hema Malini said, "It's an emotional moment for me. Ahana is with me, Esha wanted to come but could not make it here. The entire family is happy. Sunny, Bobby, everyone is aware of this and it's a big moment for all of us."

Hema Malini had earlier mentioned that the recognition felt both proud and painful, coming after Dharmendra's death at 89. The award acknowledged the film star often called the "He-Man of Bollywood", whose work spanned romance, drama and action. Dharmendra's sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, along with Esha Deol, were described as united in support.

Significance of the Padma Vibhushan award and Padma honours

The Padma Vibhushan award is India's second-highest civilian decoration after the Bharat Ratna. It is conferred for exceptional and distinguished service in fields such as art, literature, science, public affairs and cinema. Alongside the Padma Vibhushan award, the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri complete the set of three civilian honours under the Padma Awards system.

Each year, the government announces Padma awardees ahead of Republic Day, following a structured nomination and selection process. Names can be suggested by citizens, organisations and state bodies, after which committees review the recommendations. In the 2026 list, Dharmendra featured among the most discussed entertainment names, alongside Mammootty and Alka Yagnik.

The Padma Vibhushan award for Dharmendra recognised not only box office popularity but also cultural memory around his films. Dharmendra died in November 2025, weeks before turning 90, leading to messages of condolence from politicians, actors and long-time admirers. The latest ceremony therefore served as both a state honour and a public farewell to the veteran performer.