The Padma Awards is all set to commence today at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will presenting the awards to the talented artists of the country. The ceremony will celebrate some of the greatest talents of India including late Dharmendra, Mammooty and Alka Yagnik. Overall, five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards will be conferred this year.
Veteran actress Hema Malini is set to receive the Padma Vibhushan on behalf of her late husband, legendary actor Dharmendra, during the Padma Awards 2026 ceremony in New Delhi. The honour, India’s second-highest civilian award, was announced earlier this year in recognition of the actor’s extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema. The recognition comes months after the legendary actor Dharmendra passed away.
Hema Malini interacting with the media said, “It’s an emotional moment for me. Ahana is with me, Esha wanted to come but could not make it here. The entire family is happy. Sunny, Bobby, everyone is aware of this and its a big moment for all of us.”
Besides, Dharmendra Malayalam cinema icon Mamootty will also be confered with Padma Bhushan award. Mammootty’s career spans several decades and includes acclaimed performances across Malayalam, Tamil and Hindi films, and his most recent outing was the actioner ‘Patriot’ where he teamed up with ‘Drishyam 3’ actor Mohanlal. Celebrated playback singer Alka Yagnik will also be honoured with the Padma Bhushan this year.
Actor and filmmaker R. Madhavan will also receive the Padma Shri. Popularly known as Maddy, he is admired for performances in films such as ‘Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein’, ‘3 Idiots’ and ‘Rocketry: The Nambi Effect’\Padma awards- the most coveted awards was instituted in 1954, the awards recognise exceptional contributions across various fields, including arts, literature, education, sports, science, medicine, social work and public affairs.
Satish Shah, who breathed his last in October 2025 will be honored with Padma Shri. Shah featured in over 250 films.