Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, May 26: Actor Esha Deol shared an emotional tribute to her late father and legendary actor Dharmendra after he was posthumously conferred the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, for his contribution to Indian cinema and the arts.

The honour was presented during the Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. The award was received by veteran actress Hema Malini, accompanied by her daughter Ahana Deol.

Esha Deol, sharing photographs and videos from the ceremony on social media, described the moment as both “pride” and “emotion”, expressing that the family deeply wished Dharmendra was present to receive the honour himself.

She fondly recalled imagining him in his signature style, saying he would have looked “as handsome as always” in a crisp white shirt and blue suit.

Esha added that Hema Malini represented the family at the ceremony, while Ahana represented all of Dharmendra’s children. She became emotional while acknowledging his enduring legacy.

Calling him a man they “love, cherish and miss”, Esha concluded her tribute by saying he would remain “forever in our hearts”.

Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic stars, passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89 after a career spanning more than 300 films.