Padma Awards 2026: Honoring India’s Finest Contributors Across Fields

India celebrated excellence, service, and national pride as President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Padma Awards 2026 during the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I held at the majestic Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 25. The grand ceremony brought together the country’s top leadership, distinguished guests, and awardees from diverse walks of life who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation.

The event was attended by Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several senior dignitaries, reflecting the importance of one of India’s highest civilian honours.

This year, the President approved a total of 131 Padma Awards, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri honours. The list featured 19 women awardees, 16 posthumous recognitions, and recipients from categories including foreigners, NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs. During the first ceremony, 66 awards were presented, comprising 2 Padma Vibhushan, 6 Padma Bhushan, and 58 Padma Shri awards.

Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards remain among India’s most respected civilian recognitions, ranking below the Bharat Ratna. The honours acknowledge distinguished service across fields such as arts, literature, education, sports, medicine, social work, science, public affairs, and trade. Announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, the awards celebrate both celebrated personalities and lesser-known heroes whose contributions enrich the country’s social and cultural fabric.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came with the posthumous conferment of the Padma Vibhushan on legendary actor Dharmendra. The honour was received on his behalf by actor and BJP MP Hema Malini. Revered as one of Indian cinema’s most enduring icons, Dharmendra’s remarkable journey spanning over six decades left an unforgettable imprint on Bollywood through classics such as Sholay and numerous dramatic, action, and comedy roles. The recognition paid tribute to his immense contribution to Indian storytelling and popular culture.

The second Padma Vibhushan was awarded to renowned violin maestro N. Rajam, widely celebrated for pioneering the “Gayaki Ang” style that enables the violin to mirror the nuances of the human voice. Her contribution to Hindustani classical music has earned international admiration and helped preserve India’s rich musical traditions.

The Padma Bhushan category honoured several influential personalities from diverse sectors. Among them was advertising legend Piyush Pandey, who was recognised posthumously for shaping India’s advertising landscape with iconic campaigns that connected deeply with audiences. Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari, banker Uday Kotak, founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, noted gastroenterologist Dr. Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaniswamy, and scholar R. Ganesh were also among the distinguished awardees.

The Padma Shri honours showcased the extraordinary diversity of talent and dedication across India. Indian women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur received recognition for her inspiring leadership and achievements in cricket, while para-athlete Praveen Kumar was honoured for his sporting excellence. Traditional martial arts exponent K. Pajanivel and veteran hockey coach Baldev Singh were also felicitated for their contributions to Indian sports.

Acclaimed Bengali actor Prosenjit Chatterjee was honoured for his longstanding contribution to Indian cinema, particularly Bengali films that have shaped regional storytelling for decades.

Several Padma Shri recipients represented grassroots service and cultural preservation. Social workers Dr. Ramchandra Godbole and Suneeta Godbole were recognised for their healthcare initiatives in tribal regions, while environmentalists Devaki Amma G. and Hally War were honoured for conservation efforts. Folk musicians Mir Haji Kasam and Taga Ram Bheel received accolades for preserving traditional musical heritage, and Sanskrit scholar Vempaty Kutumba Shastry was recognised for his academic contributions.

The ceremony reflected the spirit of inclusivity and national unity that defines the Padma Awards. The 2026 honours balanced globally recognised personalities with individuals quietly transforming communities through social service, education, environmental conservation, healthcare, arts, and indigenous knowledge systems.

The grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan added historical significance to the occasion. Following long-standing tradition, awardees received a medallion and a sanad signed by the President in a solemn ceremony symbolising national gratitude and respect.

As India moves forward on its development journey, the Padma Awards continue to inspire future generations by celebrating dedication, innovation, and selfless service. Beyond recognising personal achievements, the honours reinforce the belief that every meaningful contribution — whether on a global stage or within a remote village — helps strengthen the nation.

The Padma Awards 2026 once again highlighted India’s democratic spirit, celebrating merit, diversity, and commitment to society while honouring the people whose work continues to shape the country’s cultural and social identity.