At the 98th edition of Academy Awards held on Sunday evening, the Academy, keeping up with their tradition, also paid a tribute to all those notable film figures who passed away last year. The name of legendary actor Dharmendra was missing from the on-air tribute, however. Even though he was later named in the online 'In Memoriam' list on Academy’s official website, the on-air omission has evoked strong reactions from many on social media. Among others, Hema Malini and Esha Deol too reacted on the issue.

Speaking to Variety India, Esha Deol said, “I don't think it would ever make a difference to Papa. His heart has always been far too big to worry about such things. For him, life was never about recognition or status - it was about love, kindness, and the place he held in people's hearts."

On the other hand, Hema Malini was far more displeased and critical of the omission. She said, “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,” speaking to Bollywood Hungama. 

Dharmendra passed away in November last year. His last on-screen appearance came in Ikkis, which released a few weeks later. 

Meanwhile, the extended In Memoriam list included other renowned figures from Indian cinema like Manoj Kumar, B Saroja Devi and Kota Srinivasa Rao. Their photographs appeared alongside industry veterans from around the world, recognising their lasting contributions to global cinema.