Padma Awards 2026: The first Civil Investiture Ceremony for the Padma Awards 2026 is taking place today, May 25, 2026, in New Delhi.
President Droupadi Murmu will present India’s highest civilian honours at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other top dignitaries.
Among the 66 distinguished achievers being recognized in this ceremony, the highlight remains a deeply poignant tribute to Hindi cinema’s ultimate showman.
The legendary actor Dharmendra is being posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, recognizing his staggering six-decade-long contribution to the Indian film fraternity.
An Emotional Moment’: Hema Malini Receives the Honour in Delhi
Padma Awards 2026: The veteran superstar passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89, just weeks shy of his 90th birthday. The announcement of his Padma Vibhushan came shortly after in January 2026, bringing a sense of closure to millions of grieving fans worldwide.
To accept the prestigious award on his behalf, his wife and veteran actor Hema Malini has arrived in the national capital. Speaking ahead of the ceremony, she expressed the profound emotional weight the day carries for their entire family.
“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 shared.
End of an Era: PM Modi’s Heartfelt Tribute
Padma Awards 2026: Dharmendra’s passing in late 2025 marked a historic shift in Bollywood, triggering widespread mourning across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the country’s tributes at the time, expressing deep grief over the loss of an icon.
“The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played,” PM Modi wrote in a heartfelt social media message.
He further noted how the beloved actor resonated with ordinary citizens, adding, “The manner in which he played diverse roles struck a chord with countless people. Dharmendra Ji was equally admired for his simplicity, humility and warmth.”
Remembering the Iconic Legacy of Hindi Cinema’s ‘He-Man’
Padma Awards 2026: Fondly dubbed the original “He-Man” of Bollywood, Dharmendra built an unparalleled cinematic legacy based on his rugged charm, impeccable comic timing, and raw dramatic intensity.
While blockbusters like Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, and Chupke Chupke cemented his status as a box-office powerhouse, his filmography also boasts masterpieces that boldly challenged societal norms:
Satyakam (1969): Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, this film featured one of Dharmendra’s finest performances as an idealistic man navigating a decaying post-independence society, dealing sensitively with themes of integrity and sexual assault survivors.
Gazab (1982): Displaying his immense artistic range, Dharmendra effortlessly essayed the complex dual role of a vulnerable, mentally challenged man alongside his ghost twin.
Other Notable Entertainment Personalities Honoured in 2026
While Dharmendra’s posthumous tribute anchors this year’s artistic honours, the Padma Awards 2026 line-up features several legendary stalwarts from across regional film industries:
The list of awardees also includes veteran theater and film actors Anil Kumar Rastogi and Arvind Vaidya.
Notably, fellow comic icon Satish Shah, who passed away in October 2025 due to cardiac arrest, is also being posthumously honoured with a Padma Shri today for his iconic contributions to cult classics and television blockbusters like Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai.
The 2026 investiture stands as a solemn celebration of these creative pioneers whose artistic works continue to serve as the structural backbone of Indian pop culture.
Also Read: Dharmendra Biography: The Man Who Turned Vulnerability into Strength and Strength into Legend