BAFTA 2026: India's veteran actor Dharmendra, who died in 2025, featured in the Memoriam Section alongside other legendary actors from across the globe who we lost last year

The Memoriam Section at BAFTA 2026 featured India’s veteran actor Dharmendra alongside Hollywood stars like Val Kilmer and Robert Duvall. Bollywood’s He-Man died in November 2025. Dharmendra is the only Indian actor to feature in the Memoriam Section at BAFTA in 2026 – alongside some of the most popular and beloved celebrities we lost in 2025.
Rob Reiner, Robert Duvall, Tom Stoppard, Brigitte Bardot, Udo Kier, Indian actor Dharmendra, Diane Ladd and Val Kilmer were some of the names who featured in the Memoriam Section at BAFTA 2026. Late actor Dharmendra was the only Indian on the list.
Indian actor Dharmendra’s demise remains a mystery. Aged 88, he suffered breathlessness early in November 2025 and had to be hospitalized. The actor was put on ventilator support and was being treated at his house. He was declared no more on November 24, 2025, which is when his last rites took place in Mumbai. The actor’s career spanned 65 years, during which he worked on over 300 movies.
Among his movies, Dharmendra’s most notable roles remain Sholay, Dharam Veer, Seeta Aur Geeta, Mera Gaon Mera Desh and Phool Aur Patthar among others. Some of his last film appearances include the National Award-winning film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani and Ikkis.
India was represented at BAFTA 2026 through the Manipuri film, Boong. The movie, backed by Farhan Akhtar, won the Best Children’s and Family film Award. It was competing with the likes of Arco, Lilo & Stitch, and Zootropolis 2. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, the movie is about a little boy (which translates to Boong in Manipuri language, Meiteilon) and his journey to finding his missing father amid socio-political tensions in North-East India.
Q: Where can I watch BAFTA 2026 in India?
A: The 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA 2026) is available in India exclusively on the OTT platform Lionsgate Play (OTTplay Premium). Additionally, viewers can catch segments and live updates on the official BAFTA YouTube channel.
Q: What is the date and time for the BAFTA 2026 livestream in India?
A: BAFTA 2026 ceremony took place in London on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
Q: Who is hosting the BAFTA Awards 2026?
A: Acclaimed Scottish actor, writer, and producer Alan Cumming hosted the BAFTA 2026 ceremony. He took over the mantle from David Tennant, who hosted the awards for the previous two consecutive years.
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