On January 25, 2026, the Government of India announced the Padma Awards 2026, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions across public life and diverse fields. The list was released on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, continuing a tradition of celebrating excellence and service that enriches the social, cultural and developmental fabric of India. 

The awards, which were instituted in 1954, are conferred by the President of India, and are announced annually on Republic Day (26 January). They are classified into three broad categories — Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushanand Padma Shri — ranked in descending order of prestige, after the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. 

For 2026, a total of 131 Padma Awards were approved, comprising 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. Among the awardees are notable figures from art and cinema, public affairs, sports, science, social service, education, medicine and literature. The list includes 19 women, six foreign/NRI/PIO/OCI recipients, and 16 posthumous awards. 

Padma Vibhushan 2026: Exceptional and Distinguished Service

The Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award of India, presented for “exceptional and distinguished service” in any field. 

  1. Dharmendra Singh Deol (Posthumous) – Art
    Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, often called the “He-Man” of Indian cinema, was honoured posthumously for his unparalleled legacy in Hindi film, spanning over six decades with more than 300 films that shaped Indian popular culture. 
  2. K T Thomas – Public Affairs
    Justice K T Thomas served on the Supreme Court of India from 1995 to 2002 and was instrumental in major judicial decisions and legal reforms that shaped Indian constitutional jurisprudence. 
  3. N Rajam – Art
    Renowned violinist N Rajam is celebrated for bridging Hindustani and Carnatic classical music traditions. A former professor and cultural ambassador, her global influence on Indian classical music spans decades. 
  4. P Narayanan – Literature and Education
    Writer and journalist P Narayanan has made enduring contributions to literature and education, particularly through his editorial leadership and influence in regional and national discourse. 
  5. V S Achuthanandan (Posthumous) – Public Affairs
    Veteran Kerala political leader V S Achuthanandan was honoured posthumously for his long public service and leadership in social and political arenas, especially in governance, transparency and anti-corruption efforts. 

Padma Bhushan 2026: Distinguished Service of High Order

The Padma Bhushan recognises “distinguished service of high order” in any field, and this year’s list reflects contributions in arts, public affairs, commerce, sport and medicine. 

Alka Yagnik (Art) – Legendary playback singer whose voice defined generations of Bollywood music and delivered countless chart-topping songs. 

Bhagat Singh Koshyari (Public Affairs) – Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and Maharashtra Governor, recognised for his political and administrative service. 

Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaniswamy (Public Affairs) – Noted leader from Tamil Nadu contributing to public life and governance. 

Mammootty (Art) – Malayalam cinema icon with a distinguished acting career spanning decades, honoured for his contribution to Indian film. 

Nori Dattatreyudu (Medicine) – Eminent cancer specialist, internationally recognised for his work in oncology. 

Piyush Pandey (Posthumous) (Art & Media) – Influential advertising veteran and creative mind whose work shaped Indian media and communication. 

S K M Maeilanandhan (Trade & Industry) – Entrepreneur and industry leader known for his business acumen and contributions to economic growth. 

Shatavadhani R Ganesh (Literature & Education) – Celebrated scholar known for literary mastery and cultural scholarship. 

Shibu Soren (Posthumous) (Public Affairs) – Founder of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and key figure in the state’s formation movement, recognised posthumously. 

Uday Kotak (Trade & Industry) – Prominent banker and financial institution builder, founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank. 

V K Malhotra (Posthumous) (Public Affairs) – Veteran political leader honoured for lifelong service. 

Vellappally Natesan (Social Service) – Community leader and social service advocate from Kerala. 

Vijay Amritraj (Sports & International) – Tennis legend and global sports ambassador, acknowledged for enhancing India’s presence in international sport. 

Padma Shri 2026: Distinguished Service Across Fields

The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian honour in India, recognising “distinguished service in any field”. 

This year, 113 individuals received the Padma Shri, covering disciplines such as arts, sports, public service, science, literature, education, medicine, social work and agriculture. Notable awardees include:

  • Rohit Sharma (Sports) – Captain of the Indian men’s cricket team and globally recognised for leading India to ICC titles. 
  • Harmanpreet Kaur (Sports) – Captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, instrumental in India’s international success. 
  • Savita Punia (Sports) – Star Indian hockey goalkeeper with standout international performances. 
  • R. Madhavan (Art) – Versatile actor and filmmaker known for acclaimed performances across Indian cinema. 
  • Anke Gowda (Literature & Education) – Former bus conductor who built India’s largest free-access librarywith over two million books, recognised for lifelong dedication to knowledge and literacy. 
  • Naresh Chandra Dev Varma (Literature & Education) – Tripuri writer known for contributions to Kokborok literature. 
  • Praveen Kumar (Sports) – Paralympic gold medallist whose achievements inspired national pride. 

The full Padma Shri roster includes awardees from every region of India, representing innovations and service in areas such as agriculture, archaeology, healthcare, traditional arts, community welfare and scientific research, highlighting the diversity and depth of Indian talent. 

Significance and National Impact

The Padma Awards underscore India’s appreciation for individuals whose work exemplifies excellence, integrity and service. While Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan honour lifetime achievement and high-order service, the Padma Shri celebrates impactful contributions at national and grassroots levels. These awards not only recognise famous personalities but also highlight unsung heroes whose work fosters community development, preserves culture, advances science, and uplifts society. 

The 2026 list, with its balance of legendary figures, scholars, sports icons, social changemakers and grassroots achievers, illustrates the expanding scope of national recognition. From cinema legends and artistic luminaries to pioneering scientists, educators and community builders, the Padma Awards 2026 reflect India’s evolving narrative of excellence — one that honours both institutional achievements and everyday courage.