Actor Esha Deol took to social media on Tuesday to pen a deeply moving tribute for her late father, legendary actor Dharmendra, following his posthumous recognition with India’s second-highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan.

Sharing her immense pride, Esha uploaded a snapshot of the ceremony showing her mother, Hema Malini, gracefully receiving the award in a white and blue saree.

A Moment of Immense Pride and Emotion

Reflecting on the milestone, Esha expressed how deeply the family felt her father’s absence during such a monumental occasion.

“A moment of pride & a moment of emotion. How we so deeply wished he was present today to receive this prestigious award from Her Excellency the President of India @presidentofindia,” Esha wrote in her post.

She clarified that her mother attended the event on behalf of the entire family, representing all of Dharmendra’s children:

• The Siblings: Sunny, Bobby, Vijeta, Ajeeta, Ahana, and Esha herself.

Esha beautifully summarized her father’s enduring legacy within their hearts:

“Our father as a hero signifies a who is deeply cherished, missed, and forever remembered by the family. A man who we love, who we cherish, who we miss & who we proudly call our papa. Forever in our hearts!”

Hema Malini Reflects on a “Euphoric” Ceremony

The accolade was formally presented by President Droupadi Murmu to Hema Malini at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Onlookers noted that Malini became noticeably emotional when Dharmendra’s name was announced, comforted at her side by her brother, Vadhir Vohra.

Hema Malini later shared her own heartfelt thoughts online, describing the experience as nothing short of “euphoric.”

“An euphoric moment! A moment when I proudly felt my husband Dharam Ji’s warm presence, guiding my hand and guiding me at the dais where his Padma Vibhushan award was being sent,” she shared.

Legacy of a Cinematic Icon

The Padma Vibhushan was awarded posthumously to Dharmendra in recognition of his towering, decades-long contributions to Indian cinema.

The beloved actor passed away on November 24, 2024, at the age of 88, leaving behind a massive cinematic legacy spanning over six decades. Affectionately known as “He-Man” by generations of fans, he remains celebrated as one of the most charismatic and defining icons of the Indian film industry.