Why the Padma Bhushan Awardee Dharmendra Funeral Did Not Receive State Honours

Legendary actor Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema’s earliest and most beloved superstars, passed away at the age of 89 on November 24 in Mumbai. The veteran actor had been hospitalised a few weeks earlier and was later discharged, continuing treatment at home. As his family quietly prepared for his milestone 90th birthday, tragedy struck, and the Deol family bid farewell to their beloved patriarch.
Maintaining complete privacy, his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol performed his last rites in the presence of close relatives and select industry friends.

Why Dharmendra Did Not Receive a State Funeral

Despite being a Padma Bhushan recipient and a former Member of Parliament (15th Lok Sabha, representing Bikaner, Rajasthan), Dharmendra’s funeral did not include state honours.
Reports suggested that many expected a ceremonial farewell—possibly with a gun salute—owing to his remarkable contribution to Indian cinema. However, sources indicate that the Deol family opted against a state funeral, choosing a personal and intimate goodbye instead. – Why the Padma Bhushan Awardee Dharmendra Funeral Did Not Receive State Honours

Understanding State Funeral Protocols

A state funeral is reserved for individuals of exceptional national importance. Such ceremonies typically follow strict protocols and may include:

A gun salute
National flag draped over the coffin
Formal wreath-laying
Public participation in mourning

These honours are meant to symbolise the nation’s collective grief as well as appreciation of the deceased’s contributions.

However, state funerals are not automatic, even for decorated personalities or public figures. They are granted only when explicitly approved by the government. Decisions are guided by:

Historical precedent
Established government norms
Assessment of the individual’s national impact
Discretion of senior government authorities

Before approval, the Chief Minister consults cabinet members and senior officials to evaluate the request.

Why the Padma Bhushan Awardee Dharmendra Funeral Did Not Receive State Honours

Dharmendra’s Final Film

Dharmendra will be seen posthumously in Ikkis, slated for a December 25 theatrical release. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film features him as the father of Agastya Nanda’s character, adding emotional weight to what is now his final on-screen appearance.