Ahead of Republic Day 2026, the Centre announced the Padma Awards. Veteran actor Dharmendra receives Padma Vibhushan, while Rohit Sharma and 130 others are honoured.
Announcement on the Eve of Republic Day
On the eve of Republic Day, the Union government announced the Padma Awards for 2026. President Droupadi Murmu has approved a total of 131 civilian honours, comprising five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. The honours recognise distinguished contributions across art, literature, sports, social service, industry and public life.
Padma Vibhushan: Posthumous Honour for Dharmendra
The highest civilian honour this year, Padma Vibhushan, has been awarded posthumously to legendary actor Dharmendra Singh Deol, acknowledging his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema. Others selected for Padma Vibhushan include K. T. Thomas, N. Rajam, P. Narayanan and former Kerala Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan (posthumous).
Padma Bhushan: Prominent Names Across Fields
The Padma Bhushan list features several well-known personalities from culture, politics and industry. Singer Alka Yagnik, acclaimed actor Mammootty, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren (posthumous), industrialist Uday Kotak and tennis icon Vijay Amritraj are among the 13 awardees. Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari is also included, with selections based on sustained social and intellectual impact.
Padma Shri: Spotlight on Sports and Entertainment
A total of 113 Padma Shri awards have been announced this year. The list includes Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma, women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Indian women’s hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia and actor R. Madhavan. Along with prominent personalities, the list also recognises grassroots contributors who have made a mark through consistent service.
Focus on Women and Global Indian Contributions
Nineteen women feature in this year’s Padma Awards list, reflecting a continued push towards broader representation. Six awards have been conferred on foreign nationals, NRIs, PIOs and OCIs. In total, 16 honours have been announced posthumously, highlighting the lasting legacy of individuals whose work continues to influence society.
All list of Awardee
Government Statement on Selection Process
In an official statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs said the Padma Awards are finalised after extensive consultations and nominations from diverse sectors. A senior official noted that the awards aim to recognise individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the nation, often without seeking public recognition.
“The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours, intended to acknowledge excellence and a spirit of service at the national level,” the ministry said.
The Padma Awards 2026 once again underline the government’s effort to honour excellence across cinema, sports, politics and social service. The diverse list suggests that national recognition is not limited to fame alone but values long-term impact and meaningful contribution. The awards are expected to inspire younger generations to pursue excellence and public service.
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