Anil Sharma feels Dharmendra should have got Padma Vibhushan earlier

Filmmaker Anil Sharma has expressed his belief that the late veteran actor Dharmendra deserved the Padma Vibhushan award much earlier than his passing on November 24, 2025. Sharma, who had a long-standing professional relationship with Dharmendra, stated that the actor's contributions to Indian cinema were monumental and should have been recognized at a higher level during his lifetime. Dharmendra, known for his charismatic presence and versatile acting skills, left an indelible mark on the film industry with a career spanning over five decades. Despite receiving the Padma Bhushan in 2012, Sharma argues that the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, would have been a more fitting acknowledgment of Dharmendra's impact and legacy in the arts. The discussion around posthumous awards often brings to light the timing of recognitions for artists who have shaped cultural landscapes. Sharma's remarks have sparked conversations on whether significant contributions are sometimes overlooked until it's too late. As fans and colleagues reminisce about Dharmendra's illustrious career, the debate underscores the importance of timely honors for those who enrich the nation's cultural heritage.

— Authored by Next24 Live