The Padma Awards for 2026 have officially been announced, recognizing a wide array of contributors across various fields. This year’s list features 131 awardees, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri honorees, highlighting significant figures from the Indian film industry.
Among the Padma Vibhushan recipients, veteran actor Dharmendra is honored posthumously. An iconic figure in Bollywood history, he passed away on November 24, 2025, in Mumbai. His last film appearance was in “Ikkis.”
In the Padma Bhushan category, celebrated playback singer Alka Yagnik has earned recognition for her impactful contributions to Indian music. Known for her hit songs such as “Agar Tum Saath Ho” and “Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hain Dil Se,” she has won the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer twice.
Another notable name is Mammootty, a renowned actor in the Malayalam film industry. Recognized for his exceptional talent, he previously received the Padma Shri award in 1998 and is a three-time National Award winner for Best Actor.
The list also features Piyush Pandey, a pioneering figure in advertising, recognized posthumously for his transformative impact on the Indian advertising landscape. He passed away in October 2025 and was known for infusing Indian culture and emotion into advertising narratives.
Moving to the Padma Shri honorees, Anil Kumar Rastogi has been honored for over six decades of dedication to theatre and film, with notable roles in films like “Ishaqzaade” and “Hotel Salvation.”
R Madhavan, another prominent actor, has been in the industry for over two decades and is acclaimed for his roles in “3 Idiots,” “Kannathil Muthamittal,” and “Dhurdandhar.”
Prosenjit Chatterjee, a major star in the Bengali film sector, is recognized for his extensive work spanning three decades and more than 300 films. His notable works include “Chokher Bali” and “Utsab.”
Lastly, the late Satish Shah receives a posthumous Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian entertainment, primarily through his memorable comedic roles in films and television series. He passed away at the age of 74 on October 25, 2025, due to kidney-related issues.
This year’s Padma Awards reflect the rich tapestry of talent present in the arts and media, celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to Indian culture and society.