Hema Malini Expresses Disappointment As Oscars Fail To Honor Dharmendra`s Name

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MARCH 16,2026

The Oscars 2026 have taken the internet by storm, but they also attracted backlash as India's He-Man, Dharmendra, failed to get an honorary mention in the "In Memoriam" section at the 98th Academy Awards.

It was during the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) that the late actor was honoured in their "In Memoriam" section. However, with the Oscars failing to do the same in their live streaming, the internet is furious, and so is Hema Malini.

The actress and Dharmendra's wife expressed her disappointment and said, "Dharam Ji never cared about Oscars."

Hema Malini expresses disappointment

At the 98th Academy Awards held today, Dharmendra, along with Manoj Kumar, was honoured on their official website. However, fans were disappointed to see their names snubbed in the live streaming.

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Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, the actress shared, 'It is a shame, of course. A shame for them to have overlooked an actor who means so many things to so many people in many parts of the world. Dharamji was known and recognised everywhere.'

Hema further went on to add Dharmendra would've never cared about his name being snubbed.

'He never got too many awards during his lifetime. Why should he care about the Oscars? Both of us were happy to be loved in our country. But awards always eluded him. Even I didn't get any award for my best performances in Lal Patthar and Meera,' she added.

Fans react to Dharmendra's name snub

The internet lost its cool as soon as they realised the Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani actor didn't find his way to the "In Memorial" list.

One user expressed frustration and wrote, "#Oscars or just a Hollywood PR show? It's disgraceful to snub Bollywood legend Dharmendra in the 'In Memoriam' tribute after 60 years of cinema. Stop using Priyanka for clout if you can't respect our icons. Not truly international! #Oscars2026 #Oscars2026 @TheAcademy.'

Another slammed the Academy Awards and wrote, 'The Oscars showed a list of people who passed away last year, yet didn't mention Dharmendramdasha legendary Indian actor who gave his entire life to cinema. Why so much hype when our icons get no recognition? After all, it's mainly a Hollywood show, not truly international. #Oscars.'

During the live telecast of the 98th Academy Awards, many Hollywood legends like Annie Hallactor Diane Keaton,Schitt's Creekactor Catherine O'Hara, American actor-filmmaker Robert Redford, German actor Udo Kier,When Harry Met Sallydirector Rob Reiner,The Godfatheractor Robert Duvall,The French Connectionactor Gene Hackman, andTop Gun star Val Kilmer were remembered.