Padma Awards 2026: Alka Yagnik, Mammootty, Murali Mohan Honoured

In a moment of national recognition, the President of India has approved 131 Padma Awards for 2026, honouring individuals for their exceptional contributions across a wide range of fields. Announced on the occasion of Republic Day, the list includes 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards, as confirmed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The 2026 Padma Awards showcase a diverse and inclusive selection, featuring 19 women awardees, 6 foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI recipients, and 16 posthumous honours. These prestigious civilian awards recognise distinguished service in areas such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, medicine, literature, education, sports, and civil service. The awards will be formally presented at Rashtrapati Bhavan during ceremonies scheduled for March–April 2026.

Padma Bhushan Awardees

Alka Yagnik
Field: Art | State: Maharashtra

One of the most celebrated voices in Indian cinema, Alka Yagnik has been conferred the Padma Bhushan for her monumental contribution to Hindi film music. Popularly hailed as the “Melody Queen of Indian Cinema”, she dominated Bollywood’s musical landscape from the early 1980s to the mid-2000s. With multiple National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards to her credit, her timeless melodies continue to influence generations of music lovers.

Mammootty
Field: Art | State: Kerala

Legendary actor and producer Mammootty has been honoured with the Padma Bhushan in recognition of his extraordinary cinematic journey. With a career spanning over five decades and more than 400 films, he is regarded as one of India’s finest actors. His work across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and English cinema has earned him unparalleled respect and acclaim.

Vijay Amritraj
Field: Sports | Country: USA

Former Indian tennis icon Vijay Amritraj receives the Padma Bhushan for his lasting contribution to the sport. A global ambassador for Indian tennis, he was previously awarded the Padma Shri in 1983 and inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2024, marking a historic achievement.

Padma Shri Awardees

Murali Mohan
Field: Art | State: Andhra Pradesh

Veteran actor and producer Murali Mohan has been honoured with the Padma Shri for his enduring contribution to Telugu cinema. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, he is known not only for his memorable performances but also for his role as a producer and industry leader. His influence extends beyond cinema into public service, making him a respected figure in both cultural and social spheres.

Gaddamanugu Chandramouli
Field: Science and Engineering | State: Telangana

A key force behind India’s Akash missile programme, Gaddamanugu Chandramouli is recognised for his lifelong dedication to strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities. Working closely under the guidance of A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he played a pivotal role in making India one of the few countries to successfully deploy a Ramjet-based missile system.

Garimella Balakrishna Prasad
Field: Art | State: Andhra Pradesh

The late Garimella Balakrishna Prasad is remembered as a towering figure in Telugu devotional and Carnatic music. Renowned for his work on Annamacharya compositions, he was instrumental in reviving and popularising sacred Telugu music through his long association with the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.

Deepika Reddy
Field: Art | State: Telangana

Classical dancer, choreographer, and guru Deepika Reddy has been awarded the Padma Shri for her significant contributions to Indian classical dance. Her work in performance and teaching has played a vital role in preserving and promoting traditional dance forms.