From Legends to Changemakers: Padma Awards 2026 Celebrate India’s Finest Across Fields

The grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan came alive on Tuesday as President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Padma Awards 2026 upon 66 eminent personalities during the first Civil Investiture Ceremony. The ceremony, steeped in dignity and national pride, celebrated individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on India across fields ranging from art and sports to medicine, public affairs and industry.Of the 66 awardees honoured in the first phase, two received the Padma Vibhushan, six were awarded the Padma Bhushan, and 58 personalities were conferred with the Padma Shri.A Moving Tribute to a Cinema LegendOne of the most emotional moments of the evening came when legendary actor Dharmendra Singh Deol was honoured posthumously with the Padma Vibhushan for his immense contribution to Indian cinema and the arts. The award was received by actor and Lok Sabha MP Hema Malini.For decades, Dharmendra remained one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars, known for his versatility, charisma and unforgettable performances that defined generations of Bollywood storytelling. The honour served as a tribute not only to an actor but to an era of Indian cinema itself.Sharing the Padma Vibhushan spotlight was legendary violin maestro Dr. N. Rajam, whose contribution to Indian classical music has inspired audiences globally. Revered for pioneering the “Gayaki Ang” style on the violin, Dr. Rajam’s recognition highlighted India’s enduring cultural richness and artistic heritage.Padma Bhushan Honours Public Service, Art and IndustryThe Padma Bhushan category celebrated distinguished service across diverse sectors. Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari received the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to public affairs.Renowned scholar and Shatavadhani Dr R Ganesh was honoured in the field of art for his extraordinary literary and cultural contributions. Industrialist Uday Suresh Kumar Kotak was recognised for his role in transforming India’s banking and financial landscape through trade and industry.Meanwhile, eminent medical professional Dr Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaiswamy was awarded for his outstanding service in medicine.Harmanpreet Kaur Among Padma Shri AwardeesThe Padma Shri list featured achievers from every corner of India and from varied walks of life. Indian women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur was honoured for her remarkable contribution to Indian sports and women’s cricket.Known for her fearless batting and leadership, Harmanpreet has become a symbol of the rising strength of women’s sports in India. Her recognition reflected the growing global stature of Indian women athletes.Other notable Padma Shri recipients included Taga Ram Bheel for contributions to art, along with Ratilal Mohanlal Borisagar, Swami Brahmdev and Kumar Bose.A Ceremony of National PrideThe high-profile ceremony witnessed the presence of Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy among several dignitaries.For 2026, the President approved 131 Padma Awards in total, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri honours. The remaining awardees will be felicitated during the second phase of the investiture ceremony later this year.Announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, the Padma Awards remain among India’s highest civilian honours. They celebrate individuals whose dedication, innovation and service continue to inspire millions and strengthen the spirit of the nation.