Padma Awards 2026: Indian cinema icons honoured for lifetime contributions

Indian cinema is celebrating a landmark moment as some of its most revered names were announced as recipients of the Padma Awards 2026. The civilian honours were revealed on Sunday, on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, recognising Bollywood icon Dharmendra, legendary actor Mammootty, veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik, and noted actor-filmmaker R Madhavan for their contributions to the arts.

Hema Malini on Dharmendra being honoured with Padma Vibhushan

Reacting hours after the Padma Awards 2026 announcement, Dharmendra’s second wife, veteran actor Hema Malini, expressed pride over his posthumous Padma Vibhushan. “So proud that the government has recognised Dharam ji’s immense contribution to the film industry by bestowing on him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award,” she wrote on Instagram.

Calling him a “living institution of Indian cinema,” Hema Malini told PTI, “He represents the soul of India, its emotions, traditions, and humanity. Honouring him with the Padma Vibhushan would be a proud recognition of an extraordinary lifetime of service to art and the nation.” Hema Malini is also a BJP MP representing Mathura in Uttar Pradesh.

Mammootty says ‘extremely happy’ by Padma Bhushan honour

Padma Bhushan awardee Mammootty said he was overwhelmed by the recognition at the Padma Awards 2026. Speaking to Mathrubhumi News, he said, “Santosham, athi santhosham (I am happy, extremely happy). There is nothing bigger than the honour of the country.”

Congratulating him, Malayalam superstar and Dadasaheb Phalke award winner Mohanlal wrote on social media, “Ichakka, absolutely delighted to know you’ve been conferred the Padma Bhushan. Heartfelt congratulations. Wishing you continued grace and glory.”

Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan also extended his wishes on X, noting their long-standing mutual admiration. He added that as a Mammootty fan, he expected his own fans to be Mammootty’s fans as well.

Alka Yagnik thanks listeners after Padma Bhushan recognition

Playback singer Alka Yagnik, honoured with the Padma Bhushan at the Padma Awards 2026, thanked the government and her audience. She told Hindustan Times, “I want to thank the government for giving me this prestigious honour. And of course I really, really want to thank all my listeners for their unconditional love.”

‘Padma Shri is not just an award, but a responsibility’: Madhavan

Actor-filmmaker R Madhavan, who received the Padma Shri at the Padma Awards 2026, shared a long note on Instagram expressing gratitude and humility. He said the honour was beyond his wildest dreams and dedicated it to his family, mentors, well-wishers, and the public.

Madhavan added that he viewed the recognition as a responsibility, promising to uphold the values it represents with dignity, sincerity, and commitment in the years ahead.

The Padma Awards 2026 marked a significant moment for Indian cinema, with Dharmendra, Mammootty, Alka Yagnik, and R Madhavan being honoured for their lasting contributions to the arts. Their reactions reflected gratitude, pride, and a renewed sense of responsibility, underscoring the cultural importance of the Padma Awards 2026.