The Government of India has announced the Padma Awards 2026, the country’s highest civilian honours, recognising 131 distinguished individuals, including Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin, for their outstanding contributions across diverse fields such as art, literature, cinema, law, public affairs, science, sports and social service.
This year’s honours comprise 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. The Padma Awards are traditionally announced on the eve of Republic Day and celebrate individuals whose work has significantly enriched India’s cultural, intellectual and social landscape.
Among the eminent personalities honoured at the national level is legendary actor Dharmendra, who has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan (Posthumous) for his lifelong contribution to Indian cinema. Renowned Malayalam film icon Mammootty has been awarded the Padma Bhushan for his exceptional artistic excellence and enduring impact on Indian cinema.
Celebrated playback singer Alka Yagnik received the Padma Bhushan for her remarkable contribution to Indian music, while Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has been honoured with the Padma Shri for his achievements in sports. Industrialist and banker Uday Kotak is also among the Padma Bhushan recipients, recognised for excellence in industry and public affairs.
Kerala has made a notable mark in this year’s Padma honours, with awardees spanning cinema, public life, law, classical arts and grassroots social service, reinforcing the state’s legacy of leadership and cultural excellence.
Veteran Communist leader and former Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan has been honoured posthumously with Padmavibhushan award for his towering contribution to public life. Eminent jurist Justice K. T. Thomas received the honour for his distinguished service in the field of law. Educationist and literary figure P. Narayanan has also been recognised for his contribution to literature and education.
Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty has received national recognition with the Padma Bhushan, reaffirming his stature as one of India’s finest actors. Social leader Vellappally Natesan has been honoured for his role in public affairs and community leadership.
Renowned Bharatanatyam exponent Kalamandalam Vimala Menon has been awarded the Padma Shri for her contribution to Indian classical dance. Environmental activist Kollakkayil Devaki Amma, aged 92 and hailing from Alappuzha district, has been recognised for her tireless grassroots work in forest conservation and community service.
The Padma Awards remain a powerful tribute to individuals whose dedication has inspired social change, preserved India’s rich cultural heritage, advanced knowledge, promoted sportsmanship and uplifted communities. Kerala’s strong representation in the Padma Awards 2026 once again highlights the state’s enduring contribution to India’s cultural, intellectual and social fabric.
The awards will be formally presented by the President of India at a ceremonial function at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the coming weeks.