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Dharmendra to Receive Top Honour at Delhi Film Festival Amidst Oscars Snub Controversy

Veteran actor Dharmendra is set to be honoured at the International Film Festival Delhi, with Hema Malini confirming her presence to accept the tribute.

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Thursday, March 26, 2026

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Key Highlights

Legendary actor Dharmendra will be felicitated at the inaugural International Film Festival Delhi.
Hema Malini has confirmed she will attend the event to receive the prestigious tribute on his behalf.
This honour follows recent criticism over Dharmendra's exclusion from the Oscars' 'In Memoriam' segment.

New Delhi is gearing up to host its first International Film Festival, and a significant highlight will be a special tribute dedicated to cinematic icon Dharmendra. The announcement comes with much anticipation, especially after recent discussions surrounding his omission from the Academy Awards' 'In Memoriam' segment.

Veteran actress and MP Hema Malini, Dharmendra’s wife, has publicly stated her intention to be present at the festival to accept the honour. "Dharam ji will be given tribute... I am going there for that," she confirmed, expressing her enthusiasm for the Delhi event.

This recognition by the International Film Festival Delhi gains particular resonance in light of the recent Oscars controversy. Dharmendra, a towering figure in Indian cinema with a career spanning over six decades and hundreds of films, was notably absent from the tribute montage at the 96th Academy Awards, which pays homage to film personalities who passed away in the preceding year. This exclusion sparked considerable debate among fans and industry colleagues alike.

Hema Malini had voiced her disappointment over the Oscars snub, calling it "a shame for them" for not acknowledging such a revered international personality. She, however, quickly added a perspective that underscored Dharmendra's stature beyond such international accolades. "Why should Dharam ji care about Oscars? We don’t care. An Oscar or no Oscar, he is Dharam ji," she asserted, highlighting his immense respect and love within India and globally, irrespective of Western awards.

Dharmendra's filmography is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal, encompassing a wide range of genres from romantic dramas to action thrillers and comedies. His performances in films like 'Sholay,' 'Chupke Chupke,' 'Seeta Aur Geeta,' and 'Guddi' have cemented his legacy as one of Indian cinema's most beloved and influential stars. This tribute in Delhi serves as a fitting acknowledgment of his unparalleled contributions to the art form.

The International Film Festival Delhi aims to celebrate global and Indian cinema, providing a significant platform for cultural exchange and recognition of talent. Such events play a crucial role in promoting film artistry and honouring those who have shaped the industry. Meanwhile, the capital city continues to host diverse initiatives, including recent legislative efforts like the Delhi Cabinet's approval of free bus travel for transgender passengers, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity and public welfare.

The upcoming felicitation is not just an award; it is a profound gesture of respect from the Indian film community and the nation to a living legend. It reinforces the idea that true cinematic greatness transcends individual awards and lies in the hearts of millions of fans he has entertained and inspired over generations.

Stay tuned to Vews News for the latest developments from the International Film Festival Delhi and more updates from the world of entertainment.