Ahead of the Padma Awards ceremony scheduled to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital on Monday, several Padma Shri awardees expressed gratitude, pride, and disbelief at being recognized with one of the country's highest civilian honors.
Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya: A Lifetime of Artistic Dedication
On being conferred with the Padma Shri 2026 in the field of arts, Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya told ANI, 'I am very happy to receive the Padma Shri award. The Government of India has appreciated the hard work I have done over so many years. I have no words to express my gratitude. I began working at the age of 25 and, even today, at 94, I continue to work.'
Tripti Mukherjee: Joy for Self and Community
Kantha embroidery artist Tripti Mukherjee also expressed much delight and added, 'I am delighted to have been honoured with the Padma Shri. This award has brought joy not only to me but also to those around me.'
Dr Lars-Christian Koch: A Surprise Honour Deepening Indo-German Ties
Ethnomusicologist Dr Lars-Christian Koch, who is also set to receive the honorary Padma Shri in the field of arts, said, 'It is a great honour to receive this award. I have deep love for India. I lived in India for a long time, and I never expected such recognition, so it came as a wonderful surprise. My connection with India began through learning Indian music and engaging in social work in Germany to promote Indian culture. My teacher from West Bengal introduced me to Indian culture, particularly Bengali traditions, and this profoundly changed my life and personality.'
Dr Sunita Godbole: Transforming Dantewada Through Medicine and Social Work
On the other hand, Dr Sunita Godbole, who will be conferred with Padma Shri 2026 in the field of medicine, described the award as 'deeply satisfying.' She said, 'The award has been given in the field of medicine. Other than health work I have also been involved in women's organisations. I am not just a doctor but a social worker. The work we have done will now be recognised more widely. Dantewada, once infamous for Naxalism, will now be known for healthcare, education, employment, environmental protection, forest development, and forest-based livelihoods. This is deeply satisfying.'
About the Padma Awards
Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country, are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. The awards are given in various disciplines and fields of activities, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service. Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order; and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field.
Ceremony Details
The Padma Awards 2026 ceremony is scheduled to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 25, where President Droupadi Murmu will confer the prestigious civilian honours upon the recipients.
