Padma Awards 2026 Highlight Cinema Icons and Unsung Heroes

The Padma Awards 2026, announced on the eve of Republic Day, have recognised 131 individuals for contributions across public life, arts, literature, education, and social work. The list reflects a mix of nationally known figures and grassroots changemakers, with notable honours for Indian cinema and music, alongside a stated focus on “unsung heroes” from marginalised communities.

Entertainment Names Feature Prominently

Veteran actor Dharmendra has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan posthumously, placing him among the top-tier honourees this year. Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty has received the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to Indian cinema. Renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik has also been awarded the Padma Bhushan, marking recognition of her decades-long influence on Indian music. The list also includes film personalities such as R Madhavan with a Padma Shri, underlining strong representation from the arts.

Breakdown of the 2026 Padma Honours

According to the official notification, President Droupadi Murmu approved 131 Padma Awards, including two duo cases counted as one award. The distribution includes five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri honours. Sixteen awards have been conferred posthumously. Women constitute 19 recipients, while six awardees are foreign nationals, NRIs, PIOs, or OCIs, reflecting an effort to widen both social and geographic representation.

Posthumous Awards and Wider Representation

Several recognitions this year are posthumous, including honours for figures beyond the entertainment space. The Padma Vibhushan list includes the late Left stalwart and former Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan, as well as the late JMM founder and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren. The Padma Bhushan has also been conferred posthumously on advertising and brand communication icon Piyush Pandey. In cinema, veteran actor Satish Shah has been honoured with a Padma Shri posthumously.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Padma Awards are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
• There are three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
• Padma Vibhushan is India’s second-highest civilian award.
• Duo cases are counted as one award in the official Padma tally.

What the Padma Categories Signify

The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. The 2026 list, spanning arts, public affairs, and social contributions, signals continued emphasis on both national cultural influence and community-level impact.