rashtrapati bhavan

Says I am very happy but at the same time very emotional

Padma Awards 2026 is scheduled to be held at the rashtrapati bhavan on May 25, where President Droupadi Murmu will confer the prestigious civilian honours upon the recipients.

President Droupadi Murmu presented 66 Padma awards at rashtrapati bhavan. Violinist N Rajam received Padma Vibhushan. Actor Dharmendra was honored posthumously with Padma Vibhushan. Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee received Padma Shri. The ceremony recognized distinguished service in various fields. A total of 131 Padma awards were approved for 2026.

In a poignant moment at the prestigious awards ceremony, Hema Malini graciously accepted the Padma Vibhushan on behalf of her beloved late husband, Dharmendra, honoring his remarkable six-decade journey in cinema. The celebration also highlighted the talents of Satish Shah, who received a Padma Shri, and the melodious Alka Yagnik, awarded the Padma Bhushan.

Eminent linguist Mahendra Kumar Mishra was honored with the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu for his pioneering work in multilingual education in Odisha. Mishra's initiatives revitalized tribal languages and culture as learning tools, leading programs in 21 tribal languages. He was among four individuals from Odisha recognized for their contributions to the state's culture and heritage.

Veteran actor Arvind Vaidya was bestowed with the prestigious Padma Shri award by President Droupadi Murmu at rashtrapati bhavan. His wife and daughter, Vandana Pathak, were present to witness the honour. With a remarkable 33-year career directing over 200 plays, Vaidya is a significant figure in Indian cinema, recognized for his outstanding contributions.

Veteran Bengali superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee was bestowed with the Padma Shri at the Padma Awards 2026 ceremony in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious honour to the emotional actor at rashtrapati bhavan. Chatterjee, who has dedicated over four decades to Bengali cinema, expressed immense joy and attributed his success to audience appreciation and his mother's sacrifices.

Celebrated for his unwavering commitment to ecological artistry, Meghalaya's Hally War, a proud Khasi, was awarded the Padma Shri for his remarkable work in cultivating living root bridges.

Celebrity chef Harpal Singh Sokhi opens up about curating the State Banquet menu hosted by President Droupadi Murmu in honour of Vietnamese President Tô Lâm at rashtrapati bhavan. Chosen to represent the cuisines of Punjab and Haryana, Sokhi describes the opportunity as one of the biggest milestones of his career. He shares details about the rigorous selection process, the thought behind serving regional Indian cuisine to international dignitaries, and balancing authenticity with presentation. Recalling his interaction with President Murmu, the chef reveals the advice that stayed with him most: “You are representing India.”

Acclaimed actor Arvind Vaidya, beloved for his character Babuji in 'Anupamaa', received the esteemed Padma Shri award from President Droupadi Murmu. After more than sixty years gracing stages and screens, Vaidya conveyed his heartfelt appreciation, stating that this recognition is a 'pinnacle of a fulfilling career' enriched by the affection of viewers and invaluable relationships formed within the industry.

In an emotional and heartfelt note, actor-BJP MP Hema Malini opened up about the overwhelming moment of receiving the Padma Vibhushan on behalf of her late husband, and cinema icon Dharmendra.

The Padma Awards 2026 honoured leading Indian entertainment figures at rashtrapati bhavan. Dharmendra received a posthumous Padma Vibhushan, accepted by Hema Malini. Satish Shah was posthumously awarded the Padma Shri. Alka Yagnik, Mammootty, and R Madhavan were also honoured among 131 awardees across various fields.

This year's Padma Awards, India's highest civilian accolades, shone a spotlight on luminaries such as Mammootty, Alka Yagnik, and R. Madhavan. While the awards honor extraordinary contributions to society, they come without monetary rewards or travel benefits. Instead, winners are presented with a medallion and a certificate from the President, celebrating their impact on our cultural landscape and public life.

10 Others From UP To Receive Padma Shri

Members of the NDA coalition celebrated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 12-year tenure, calling it a 'golden era' of public servitude and trust. They underscored significant advancements in poverty alleviation, India's international reputation, self-sufficiency, and national pride. This phase was labeled a 'milestone moment,' characterized by effective governance, courageous policy decisions, and the revival of national self-assurance.

In the sweltering summer heat of Delhi, museums become a refuge filled with cultural treasures. They offer visitors a chance to delve into the rich tapestry of history and creativity. Instead of overwhelming oneself with the entirety of exhibits, experts suggest zeroing in on select artefacts to cultivate a richer understanding.

Jaisalmer's Taga Ram Bheel will receive the Padma Shri for his exceptional contribution to preserving and promoting the Algoza, a rare folk instrument of the Thar Desert. Bheel, a renowned folk artist, has performed globally for decades, bringing Rajasthan's rich musical traditions to international audiences. His mastery and dedication have earned him national and international acclaim.