### Celebrating a Legend: Hema Mali

### Celebrating a Legend: Hema Malini's Heartfelt Reaction to Dharmendra's Posthumous Padma Vibhushan **Imagine the 'He-Man' of Bollywood, Dharmendra, receiving India's second-highest civilian honor—except it arrives as a bittersweet posthumous tribute.** This moment has stirred emotions across the nation, with his beloved wife, Hema Malini, leading the chorus of pride and gentle regret.[1][2] Dharmendra, who captivated audiences for over six decades with iconic films like *Sholay*, *Chupke Chupke*, and his final role in *Ikkis*, passed away on November 24, 2025, at age 89.[1][4][5] Known for his striking screen presence, warm smile, and versatility, he earned his place as one of Hindi cinema's most beloved stars.[1] The Padma Vibhushan, announced in the 2026 Padma Awards list by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Republic Day eve, recognizes his "exceptional and distinguished service to the arts."[1][2] Hema Malini, the veteran actress and politician, shared her joy with ANI: "It makes us very happy, the entire country is happy. Had it come earlier, Dharmendra ji would have been extremely happy, and seeing him, his fans would have been even happier."[1][2] In a separate statement on X, she added, "So so proud that the government has recognised Dharam ji's immense contribution to the film industry by bestowing on him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award," thanking the Centre for honoring his legacy.[1][3][5] Even daughter Esha Deol echoed the family's pride, calling it a heartfelt milestone.[3]

Black and white portrait of a classic Bollywood actor evoking Dharmendra's iconic charm

*A timeless tribute to Bollywood's enduring legends (Unsplash free image).*

This posthumous award underscores Dharmendra's unmatched hit films and his role as a loving husband, father, and philanthropist—traits Hema Malini cherished deeply.[2][4][5] Their on-screen magic in hits like *Seeta Aur Geeta* and *The Burning Train* mirrored their real-life bond since 1980.[3] While the timing brings a tinge of "what if," it cements his eternal spot in Indian cinema history.[3][4] What are your favorite Dharmendra memories? **Drop a comment below sharing your thoughts, or share this post to celebrate the legend—let's keep his legacy alive!**
Citations
1.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/hema-malini-reacts-to-dharmendras-posthumous-padma-vibhushan-he-wouldve-been-happy-if-/articleshow/127861785.cms
2.https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/bollywood/hema-malini-reacts-to-dharmendra-s-posthumous-padma-vibhushan-had-it-come-earlier-he-would-have-been-extremely-happy-article-13806249.html
3.https://economictimes.com/magazines/panache/hema-malini-opens-up-about-her-only-regret-after-dharmendras-padma-vibhushan-honour/articleshow/127635045.cms
4.https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/exclusive-hema-malini-reacts-to-dharmendras-padma-vibhushan-honour-he-deserved-it-much-earlier-101769351321677.html
5.https://www.bollywoodshaadis.com/articles/hema-malini-shares-post-after-dharmendra-wins-padma-vibhushan-74163
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