Hema Malini attended the Padma Awards 2026 in New Delhi to accept the Padma Vibhushan on behalf of her late husband, Dharmendra, who passed away in November 2025 at the age of 89. Dressed in a light pink saree, Hema Malini was accompanied by her daughter, Ahana Deol, as they both expressed their emotions during the ceremony. The award, presented by President Droupadi Murmu, honors Dharmendra's significant contributions to Indian cinema and his lasting cultural impact. Hema Malini shared her pride and emotional connection to the recognition, stating that the entire family, including her children Sunny and Bobby, felt honored by the award. The Padma Vibhushan is India's second-highest civilian honor, awarded annually ahead of Republic Day for distinguished service across various fields, including art and cinema. Dharmendra's legacy in the film industry continues to resonate with fans and colleagues alike.