Hema Malini Gets Emotional as Dharmendra Receives Final National Honour, Sunny and Bobby Informed

By sparkchronicle.com May 25, 2026 0

BOLLYWOOD: Hema Malini will receive late husband Dharmendra’s posthumous Padma Vibhushan in Delhi. The actress says Sunny and Bobby Deol are aware and the family is emotional.

By Sam Khan
Published: May 25, 2026

Veteran actress and politician Hema Malini is set to receive late husband Dharmendra’s posthumous Padma Vibhushan award during the prestigious Padma Awards 2026 ceremony in New Delhi.

The honour, India’s second-highest civilian award, was announced earlier this year in recognition of Dharmendra’s monumental contribution to Indian cinema spanning more than six decades. Hema Malini, who has travelled to Delhi for the ceremony, described the moment as deeply emotional for the entire family.

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Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Hema Malini said that Dharmendra’s sons, actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, are fully aware of the occasion and emotionally connected to the honour.

“It’s an emotional moment for me. The entire family is happy. Sunny, Bobby, everyone is aware of this and it’s a big moment for all of us,” Hema Malini said in an interaction with media.

A Historic Honour for Dharmendra

Known as the “He-Man” of Bollywood, Dharmendra remained one of Indian cinema’s most loved and respected stars for decades.

The actor passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89, just days before his 90th birthday, leaving fans and the film industry in mourning. Following his passing, the Government of India announced that he would be honoured posthumously with the Padma Vibhushan for his lifetime contribution to Indian cinema.

Dharmendra’s filmography includes several iconic films, including:

Sholay
Chupke Chupke
Satyakam
Dharam Veer
Phool Aur Patthar.

His contribution helped shape the golden era of Bollywood, earning him a massive fan following across generations.

Hema Malini Calls It an Emotional Family Moment

According to reports, Hema Malini travelled to Delhi accompanied by daughter Ahana Deol, while daughter Esha Deol reportedly could not attend the ceremony.

The actress admitted the honour brings mixed emotions — pride in Dharmendra’s legacy, but sadness that he is not present to personally receive the award.

Earlier, Hema had reportedly said she wished Dharmendra had received the recognition during his lifetime, while adding that the family feels immense pride in seeing his legacy formally honoured.

What Is the Padma Vibhushan?

The Padma Vibhushan is India’s second-highest civilian honour, awarded for exceptional and distinguished service across fields such as arts, literature, public service, science, sports, and cinema.

The award ceremony is held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where Droupadi Murmu presents honours in the presence of senior government leaders, including Narendra Modi and other dignitaries.

Perspective

For Bollywood fans, Dharmendra’s Padma Vibhushan recognition feels like a tribute to one of Indian cinema’s most enduring legends.

While the honour celebrates an extraordinary career, the moment also carries deep emotional weight for the Deol family — especially with Hema Malini stepping forward to accept the award on behalf of her late husband.

FAQs

1. Why is Hema Malini receiving the Padma Vibhushan?

Hema Malini is receiving the award on behalf of late husband Dharmendra, who is being honoured posthumously.

2. What did Hema Malini say about Sunny and Bobby Deol?

She said Sunny and Bobby are aware of the ceremony and that it is a “big moment” for the family.

3. Why is Dharmendra receiving the Padma Vibhushan?

He is being honoured for his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema.

4. When did Dharmendra pass away?

Dharmendra passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89.

5. Where is the Padma Awards ceremony held?

The ceremony takes place at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

Final Thoughts

Dharmendra receiving the Padma Vibhushan posthumously is not just recognition of an acting career — it is recognition of a cinematic legacy that influenced generations.

For Hema Malini and the Deol family, the moment appears to be one of both pride and emotion, as India honours one of Bollywood’s most unforgettable stars