Celebrating Excellence: Padma Awards 2026 Ceremony Highlights
Padma Awards Ceremony Overview
Following the inaugural Padma Awards ceremony for 2026, President Droupadi Murmu is set to present 65 awards at the upcoming event. The first ceremony took place on May 25, while the second is scheduled for today at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. This round of awards includes two Padma Vibhushan, seven Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri awards. During the first ceremony, the late actor Dharmendra was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, an award that was accepted posthumously by his wife, Hema Malini. Today, three notable figures from the entertainment industry will also be recognized.
Mammootty Receives Padma Bhushan
Mammootty
Renowned Malayalam actor Mammootty will be honored with the Padma Bhushan during the second civil investiture ceremony. With a prolific career spanning over five decades and more than 400 films, Mammootty has made significant contributions to cinema, including notable works like Bramayugam and Mathilukal. His latest film, Patriot, premiered on May 1.
R Madhavan to be Honored
R Madhavan
In addition to Mammootty, R Madhavan will receive the Padma Shri award. Fondly known as Maddy, he has established a remarkable career over three decades across various film industries. His recent appearance was in Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which has become one of the major blockbusters of 2026.
Alka Yagnik's Recognition
Alka Yagnik
Playback singer Alka Yagnik is among the distinguished personalities receiving the Padma Awards from President Droupadi Murmu. She will be awarded the Padma Bhushan. Upon learning of her recognition, Yagnik expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, "I am deeply grateful to the Government of India for bestowing upon me the Padma Bhushan. After decades in the film and music industry, this honour feels both humbling and deeply emotional."
Posthumous Honors for Dharmendra and Satish Shah
Posthumous Awards
During the first ceremony on May 25, the late actors Dharmendra and Satish Shah were honored posthumously with the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri, respectively. Hema Malini accepted the award on behalf of her late husband. Sharing a moment from the ceremony on Instagram, she reflected, "An euphoric moment! A moment when I actually felt my husband Dharam ji's warm presence, holding my hand and guiding me to the dais where his Padma Vibhushan award awaited him." The second civil investiture ceremony is set to commence at 5 PM today. Stay tuned for further updates!