Dharmendra awarded Padma Vibhushan posthumously; Mammootty, Alka Yagnik receive Padma Bhushan

The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the Padma Awards 2026 on the eve of India’s Republic Day, recognising individuals for their contributions across fields including arts, cinema, social work and public service. This year’s list features veteran actor Dharmendra Singh Deol, who passed away in November 2025, receiving the Padma Vibhushan posthumously. Dharmendra had earlier been honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2012 for his work in cinema.

Dharmendra, fondly remembered as the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’, died at the age of 89, just days before his 90th birthday. His career spanned more than six decades, leaving a lasting impact on Hindi cinema. He is known for classics such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Dharam Veer and Dream Girl. In recent years, he won praise for performances in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. His final film, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, released posthumously earlier this month and featured actors Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikander Kher, Vivaan Shah and the late Asrani.

Alongside Dharmendra, Malayalam superstar Mammootty and Bollywood playback singer Alka Yagnik have been awarded the Padma Bhushan this year. Padma Shri recognitions include actor R Madhavan, Bengali star Prosenjit Chatterjee, and the late actor Satish Shah. In total, this year’s announcement includes five Padma Vibhushan, thirteen Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awardees.

The awards, one of India’s highest civilian honours, celebrate excellence and contributions that have significantly influenced their respective fields. The recipients’ names were unveiled today, with the presentation scheduled later this year at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Droupadi Murmu.

Dharmendra’s posthumous recognition underscores his enduring influence on Indian cinema, celebrating a career that not only shaped generations of audiences but also inspired fellow actors. His legacy, marked by a combination of memorable performances and lasting cultural impact, continues to resonate even after his passing, reflecting the spirit and achievements honoured by the Padma Awards.