Who Are the Latest Recipients of the Prestigious Padma Awards? Discover the Stars Honored This Year!

The Padma Awards 2026 ceremony, presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, recognized 65 distinguished individuals, including tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, actor Mammootty, and singer Alka Yagnik. The event celebrated their exceptional contributions across various fields such as arts, public affairs, and education. Notably, former Supreme Court judge KT Thomas and journalist P Narayanan received the Padma Vibhushan. This prestigious award is one of India's highest civilian honors, acknowledging excellence in diverse disciplines. Discover more about the honorees and their achievements in this year's ceremony.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 19:32 IST

Celebrating Excellence: The Padma Awards Ceremony

New Delhi: On Tuesday, President Droupadi Murmu honored 65 distinguished individuals with the prestigious Padma awards, including tennis icon Vijay Amritraj, renowned actor Mammootty, and celebrated playback singer Alka Yagnik.

During the second civil investiture ceremony held at the Garbha Mandap of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President awarded the Padma Vibhushan to former Supreme Court judge KT Thomas for his contributions to public affairs, alongside eminent Malayalam journalist P Narayanan for his impact on literature and education.

The Padma Bhushan was awarded to several notable figures, including Alka Yagnik, Mammootty, American oncologist Dattatreyudu Nori, tennis star Vijay Amritraj, industrialist SKM Maeilanandhan, and social worker and educator Vellappally Natesan.

Rupi Soren accepted the Padma Bhushan on behalf of her late husband, JMM founder Shibu Soren.

Earlier, on the eve of Republic Day, the government had announced a total of 131 Padma awards for 2026, which included five Padma Vibhushan awards.

In the first civil investiture ceremony held on May 25, the President had already conferred 65 Padma Awards, comprising two Padma Vibhushan, six Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri.

The Padma Awards are among the highest civilian honors in India, categorized into three levels: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.

These awards recognize excellence across various fields, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.

The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of high order, and the Padma Shri for notable service in any field.