Tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma, veteran actor Mammootty and renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik were among 65 eminent personalities honoured with the prestigious Padma awards by President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday.
The awards were presented during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at the Gantantra Mandap in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The ceremony recognised outstanding contributions by individuals from diverse fields, including sports, arts, literature, medicine, public affairs and social service.
President Murmu conferred the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honour, on former Supreme Court judge KT Thomas for his contributions to public affairs and veteran Malayalam journalist P Narayanan for his distinguished service in literature and education.
Among those receiving the Padma Bhushan were singer Alka Yagnik, actor Mammootty, noted oncologist Dattatreyudu Nori, tennis icon Vijay Amritraj, industrialist SKM Maeilanandhan, and social worker and educationist Vellappally Natesan.
Also read: Lucknow blaze: 4 arrested, SIT probe ordered
Rupi Soren accepted the Padma Bhushan on behalf of her late husband, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha founder Shibu Soren, in recognition of his long-standing contribution to public life and tribal welfare.
Former India captain Rohit Sharma was among the recipients of the Padma Shri. The honour acknowledges his remarkable achievements in international cricket, where he established himself as one of India's most accomplished batters and captains.
The Padma Awards for 2026 were announced on the eve of Republic Day. This year's list includes 131 awardees, among them five recipients of the Padma Vibhushan.
The Padma Awards are among the country's highest civilian honours and are conferred in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. They recognise distinguished service and exceptional achievements across fields such as art, literature, education, science, engineering, medicine, social work, sports, civil service, trade and industry.
The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service of the highest order, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri for distinguished contributions in any field of endeavour.
Follow us
