📌 Key Points
- Dharmendra’s absence from the Oscars 2026 In Memoriam segment sparked outrage among Indian fans.
- Fans criticized the Oscars for lacking true international representation despite claims of inclusion.
- The In Memoriam segment honored Hollywood figures but omitted the Bollywood legend.
- Several other prominent actors were also missing from the Oscars tribute.
The 98th Academy Awards sparked controversy after Bollywood legend Dharmendra was not included in the In Memoriam segment. Indian fans expressed disappointment, criticizing the Oscars for its perceived Hollywood-centric focus despite claims of being an international award show.
Dharmendra’s Omission Sparks Fan Outrage
The 98th Academy Awards were held in Los Angeles on Sunday night, honouring the best and brightest from Hollywood’s 2025 slate. The evening also saw an extended In Memoriam segment, honouring the actors, filmmakers, and technicians who passed away in the past year. And even as cine legends like Robert Redford and Rob Reiner’s careers were celebrated, Indian fans were miffed that Bollywood legend Dharmendra failed to even find a mention.
Oscars Face Criticism Over Lack of Inclusion
The omission was curious given Oscars’ push for more inclusion and to be seen as an international film award, rather than just being limited to Hollywood. Fans from India were quick to note this. “The Oscars showed a list of people who passed away last year, yet didn’t mention Dharmendra—a 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,” wrote one on Twitter. As several publications in the West listed actors and technicians who were missing in the segment, many Indian fans responded with Dharmendra’s name in the comments.
Other Notable Actors Missing From Tribute
Other big names who were omitted from the segment included James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Robert Carradine, June Lockhart, and Brigitte Bardot.
The omission of Dharmendra highlights the ongoing debate about inclusivity in international awards. While the Oscars celebrated many, the absence of such a prominent figure raises questions about representation and global recognition within the film industry.
