Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra was remembered at the 2026 BAFTA Awards during the ceremony’s In Memoriam tribute in London.
The tribute honoured film and cultural icons who passed away over the past year. British singer-songwriter Jessie Ware performed a soulful rendition of “The Way We Were” as images of the legends appeared on screen. Among them was Dharmendra, who died on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89.
Often referred to as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” Dharmendra had a career spanning over six decades. His last film, Ikkis, released just months before his passing. Earlier, a restored 4K edition of his classic Sholay: The Final Cut premiered in December 2025 to coincide with what would have been his 90th birthday.
Dharmendra’s inclusion in the BAFTA tribute highlights the global recognition of his contribution to cinema. The honour places him alongside other Indian legends previously recognised by the British Academy.
In recent years, BAFTA has paid tribute to several Indian icons. In 2021, the awards remembered actors Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor, whose deaths deeply impacted fans worldwide. In 2022, legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar was honoured for her immense influence on film music, including her historic 1974 performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
The BAFTA tribute underscores the enduring legacy of Dharmendra, whose performances in films like Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Anupama remain celebrated across generations. His charm, versatility, and contribution to Bollywood have earned him a permanent place in cinematic history.
Fans and industry peers praised the emotional moment at the BAFTA Awards, noting that such recognition reaffirms Dharmendra’s stature as one of India’s most iconic film stars. The tribute serves as a reminder of his extraordinary talent and the inspiration he provided to generations of actors and filmmakers.
The 2026 BAFTA Awards’ In Memoriam segment highlighted the global impact of cinema, honouring legends like Dharmendra and cementing his legacy on the international stage.
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