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India celebrated excellence and outstanding service as President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Awards 2026 during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The prestigious ceremony honoured individuals who have made remarkable contributions in sports, arts, cinema, public service, literature, medicine, and several other fields.
Among the biggest highlights of the event were honours for cricket star Rohit Sharma, legendary playback singer Alka Yagnik, Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty, actor R. Madhavan, hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia, tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, and several other distinguished personalities.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other senior dignitaries. During this phase of the investiture ceremony, 65 Padma Awards were presented, including 2 Padma Vibhushan, 7 Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri awards.
What Are the Padma Awards?
The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours and are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. They recognise individuals who have made exceptional contributions in diverse fields, including:
- Arts
- Sports
- Literature & Education
- Science & Engineering
- Medicine
- Public Affairs
- Social Work
- Trade & Industry
- Civil Service
The awards are presented in three categories:
- Padma Vibhushan – Exceptional and distinguished service.
- Padma Bhushan – Distinguished service of a high order.
- Padma Shri – Distinguished service in any field.
These awards celebrate excellence, dedication, and lifelong contributions to the nation.
Major Winners of Padma Awards 2026
Alka Yagnik Receives Padma Bhushan
Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, for her immense contribution to Indian music.
For over three decades, Alka Yagnik has been one of Bollywood’s most celebrated voices. She has sung thousands of songs across multiple Indian languages and has received numerous Filmfare Awards and National recognition. Her timeless melodies continue to inspire generations of music lovers.
Her recognition with the Padma Bhushan is a tribute to her extraordinary career and lasting influence on Indian cinema.
Mammootty Awarded Padma Bhushan
Malayalam cinema superstar Mammootty was also conferred with the Padma Bhushan for his exceptional contribution to Indian cinema.
With a career spanning over four decades and more than 400 films, Mammootty has become one of India’s most respected actors. Known for his versatility and impactful performances, he has won several National Film Awards and countless state honours.
The Padma Bhushan recognises his remarkable contribution to Indian entertainment and culture.
Vijay Amritraj Honoured with Padma Bhushan
Former tennis champion Vijay Amritraj received the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to sports and public service.
Apart from his successful tennis career, Amritraj has represented India on global platforms as a sports ambassador, commentator, philanthropist, and humanitarian.
Shibu Soren Receives Padma Bhushan Posthumously
Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren was honoured posthumously with the Padma Bhushan for his lifelong contribution to public affairs and tribal welfare.
The award was received by members of his family during the ceremony.
Rohit Sharma Receives Padma Shri
Indian cricket legend Rohit Sharma was among the biggest sporting personalities honoured at the ceremony with the Padma Shri.
Rohit has enjoyed an extraordinary international career, becoming one of the finest opening batters in cricket history. His achievements include:
- Three double centuries in One Day Internationals.
- Multiple ICC tournament victories.
- Successful leadership of Team India.
- Numerous IPL championships as captain.
- Hundreds of international appearances for India.
The Padma Shri adds another prestigious honour to his illustrious cricket career.
Savita Punia Honoured for Indian Hockey
Indian women’s hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia also received the Padma Shri.
Widely regarded as one of India’s greatest goalkeepers, Savita has represented the country in more than 300 international matches and played a crucial role in India’s impressive performances on the world stage.
Her award reflects the growing recognition of women’s sports in India.
R. Madhavan Receives Padma Shri
Actor R. Madhavan was conferred with the Padma Shri for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.
From memorable romantic dramas to critically acclaimed biographical films like Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, Madhavan has consistently delivered exceptional performances in Hindi, Tamil, and other Indian film industries.
His contribution extends beyond acting, with his work as a writer, producer, and director earning widespread appreciation.
Other Notable Awardees
Several other distinguished personalities were honoured during the ceremony across different fields.
Some of the notable recipients included:
- Rajendra Prasad – Padma Shri
- Murali Mohan – Padma Shri
- Dr. Neerja Bhatla – Padma Shri
- Dr. Jose Chacko Periappuram – Padma Shri
- Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan – Padma Shri
- P. Narayanan – Padma Vibhushan
- Justice K. T. Thomas – Padma Vibhushan
The complete list reflects India’s diversity of talent across science, medicine, arts, governance, sports, and social service.
Ceremony Highlights
Some of the biggest moments from the event included:
- President Droupadi Murmu presented 65 Padma Awards.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the ceremony.
- Rohit Sharma received one of the biggest standing ovations.
- Alka Yagnik made a rare public appearance to receive the Padma Bhushan.
- R. Madhavan’s humble gesture towards the Prime Minister drew attention on social media.
- Sporting legends and cinema icons shared the stage with scientists, doctors, and social workers.
The ceremony showcased India’s appreciation for excellence across every field of public life.
Why the Padma Awards Matter
The Padma Awards represent more than just national honours. They recognise individuals whose work has positively influenced millions of lives.
Whether it is Rohit Sharma inspiring young cricketers, Alka Yagnik enchanting generations through music, Mammootty redefining Indian cinema, or Savita Punia elevating women’s hockey, each recipient has contributed significantly to India’s cultural and sporting identity.
These awards encourage future generations to pursue excellence with dedication, integrity, and perseverance.
Final Thoughts
The Padma Awards 2026 once again highlighted India’s commitment to recognising extraordinary talent and lifelong service. From sports and cinema to music, public affairs, medicine, and social work, this year’s awardees represent the very best of the nation.
The recognition of personalities such as Rohit Sharma, Alka Yagnik, Mammootty, Vijay Amritraj, Savita Punia, and R. Madhavan reflects the growing appreciation for excellence across diverse fields.
As these distinguished individuals continue to inspire millions, the Padma Awards remain one of India’s most respected symbols of honour, gratitude, and national pride.
FAQs
Who received the Padma Bhushan in 2026?
Some of the prominent Padma Bhushan recipients include Alka Yagnik, Mammootty, Vijay Amritraj, and Shibu Soren (posthumously).
Which cricketer received the Padma Shri in 2026?
Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma was honoured with the Padma Shri.
Who presented the Padma Awards 2026?
President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards during the Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
How many Padma Awards were presented during the second ceremony?
A total of 65 Padma Awards were conferred, including 2 Padma Vibhushan, 7 Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri awards.
Why are the Padma Awards important?
The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours and recognise exceptional contributions across sports, arts, literature, science, medicine, public service, and many other fields.
