Boman Irani: Dharmendra, Satish Shah deserved Padma honours long ago
Synopsis
Boman Irani's tribute to Dharmendra and Satish Shah cuts deeper than a routine congratulation — his surprise that the Padma recognition took this long is a quiet indictment of how Indian cinema's most beloved supporting pillars are often honoured posthumously, if at all.
Key Takeaways
Boman Irani expressed surprise that Dharmendra and Satish Shah had not received Padma honours earlier.
Both actors were recognised in the Padma Awards announced in January 2025 for their contributions to Indian cinema.
Boman recalled a deeply personal moment with Dharmendra , describing his warmth and affection as 'unforgettable'.
He paid tribute to Satish Shah , saying, 'Satish was always laughing, always smiling.
We miss him.' Boman is next set to appear in 'Peddi' , releasing 4 June , alongside Ram Charan , Janhvi Kapoor , and Divyenndu Sharma .
Actor Boman Irani has said he is both delighted and surprised that veteran stars Dharmendra and Satish Shah received their Padma honours only now, telling reporters that the recognition was long overdue for two of Indian cinema's most beloved figures. Speaking fondly of both icons, Boman described their warmth, humility, and the indelible impressions they left on everyone who knew them.
Boman on Dharmendra: 'Love and Kindness Unforgettable'
Recalling his personal interactions with the late superstar, Boman said, 'Dharamji was the most loving person I have ever met, apart from being the handsomest, and the most charming.' He added that there was an unmistakable tenderness in Dharmendra's voice and manner. 'Whenever he met you, he made you feel special, like your presence made him happy,' Boman noted.
He shared a particularly moving memory: 'I will never forget how he shook my hand and then placed his hand on my face with affection. It was just a small gesture, but my face literally shook. It was so emotional. That love and kindness are unforgettable.'
Remembering Satish Shah
Boman was equally warm in his tribute to the late actor-comedian Satish Shah, saying simply, 'Satish was always laughing, always smiling. We miss him.' The brief remark carried the weight of genuine affection, underscoring how deeply Shah is missed across the film and television fraternity.
About the Padma Awards
The Padma Awards, among India's highest civilian honours, were announced in January 2025. Both Dharmendra and Satish Shah were posthumously recognised for their extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema and entertainment. Dharmendra, widely regarded as one of the most iconic stars of Hindi cinema, delivered a string of celebrated films over six decades — from 'Sholay' and 'Satyakam' to 'Chupke Chupke' and 'Yaadon Ki Baaraat'. Satish Shah, meanwhile, carved an irreplaceable niche with his impeccable comic timing across films such as 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro', 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', and 'Main Hoon Na', as well as the beloved television sitcom 'Sarabhai vs Sarabhai'.
What's Next for Boman Irani
On the professional front, Boman is set to appear in the upcoming film 'Peddi', which also stars Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Divyenndu Sharma. The film is scheduled to release on 4 June. As the tributes to Dharmendra and Satish Shah continue to pour in from across the industry, Boman's remarks serve as a reminder of how profoundly both legends shaped Indian popular culture.
Point of View
Yet formal State recognition arrived posthumously — a pattern that repeats with uncomfortable regularity in India's civilian honours system. The industry's grief is genuine, but it also exposes a structural gap: entertainers who define eras are routinely celebrated by audiences long before institutions catch up, if they do at all.
NationPress
6 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Boman Irani say he was surprised by the Padma honours for Dharmendra and Satish Shah?
Boman Irani said he was surprised because he felt both legends deserved the recognition far earlier, given their towering contributions to Indian cinema over several decades. His remarks reflected a widely held sentiment in the film industry that the honours were long overdue.
When were Dharmendra and Satish Shah awarded the Padma honours?
The Padma Awards recognising Dharmendra and Satish Shah were announced in January 2025. Both awards were conferred posthumously for their outstanding contributions to Indian cinema and entertainment.
What did Boman Irani say about Dharmendra?
Boman described Dharmendra as 'the most loving person I have ever met, apart from being the handsomest, and the most charming.' He recalled a personal moment where Dharmendra placed his hand on Boman's face with affection, calling the gesture deeply emotional and unforgettable.
What is Boman Irani's upcoming film?
Boman Irani is set to appear in 'Peddi', releasing on 4 June, alongside Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Divyenndu Sharma.
What are some of Satish Shah's most remembered works?
Satish Shah is best remembered for his roles in films such as 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro', 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', and 'Main Hoon Na', as well as the iconic television sitcom 'Sarabhai vs Sarabhai'. He was celebrated for his impeccable comic timing and versatility.
