The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the prestigious Padma Awards for the year 2026 at a grand civil investiture ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 25, 2026. A total of 131 Padma awards were announced, comprising five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards. The list of honorees includes renowned figures from diverse fields such as cinema, finance, sports, and public service.
Notable Recipients of Padma Awards 2026
Among the distinguished personalities awarded, veteran actor Dharmendra, banker Uday Kotak, and Indian cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur have been recognized for their exceptional contributions. Dharmendra, a legendary figure in Indian cinema, received the Padma Bhushan for his decades-long impact on the film industry. Uday Kotak, the prominent banker and founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, was also honored with the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to the banking and financial sector. Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian women's cricket team, was awarded the Padma Shri, becoming the first female cricketer from India to receive this honor.
Breakdown of Awards
The Padma awards are categorized into three tiers: Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. This year, the list includes:
- Padma Vibhushan (5 recipients): Recognized for their unparalleled contributions to the nation.
- Padma Bhushan (13 recipients): Honored for distinguished service in their respective domains.
- Padma Shri (113 recipients): Acknowledged for their exceptional work across various sectors, including art, education, sports, medicine, social work, and trade.
Ceremony Highlights
The investiture ceremony was live-streamed on the official Twitter handle of the President of India. President Murmu presented the awards to the recipients, who were accompanied by family members and dignitaries. The event underscored the nation's appreciation for individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
Reactions from Honorees
Several awardees expressed their gratitude and joy upon receiving the honors. Dharmendra, in a statement, thanked the government and the people of India for their love and support. Uday Kotak dedicated the award to his team and the banking community. Harmanpreet Kaur said she was humbled and motivated to continue inspiring young girls through cricket.
The Padma Awards 2026 continue the tradition of recognizing excellence and service across diverse fields, reinforcing the nation's commitment to honoring its achievers.
