Dharmendra, Mammootty, Madhavan Among Major Names Honoured In Art Category At Padma Awards 2026

The Government of India announced the prestigious Padma Awards 2026 on the occasion of Republic Day, recognising some of the country’s most celebrated personalities across cinema, music, literature, folk traditions, and cultural arts. Among the biggest names honoured in the Art category this year are legendary actor Dharmendra, Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty, and noted artist Madhavan Ranganathan. The awards continue to celebrate excellence and extraordinary contribution to Indian culture and society.

Veteran Bollywood superstar Dharmendra was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours, for his immense contribution to Indian cinema and the arts. The legendary actor, known for timeless films and his larger-than-life screen presence, remains one of the most loved stars in the history of Hindi cinema. Renowned violinist N Rajam also received the Padma Vibhushan in the Art category for her exceptional contribution to Indian classical music.

In the Padma Bhushan category, Mammootty was recognised for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema and the arts. Widely regarded as one of the finest actors in Indian film history, Mammootty’s decades-long career across Malayalam cinema has earned him massive critical acclaim and a loyal fan following. The government also honoured celebrated singer Alka Yagnik, late advertising legend Piyush Pandey, and scholar-artist Shatavadhani R Ganesh with the Padma Bhushan in the Art field.

The Padma Shri list in the Art category featured several distinguished personalities from diverse creative backgrounds, including actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, veteran Telugu actor Maganti Murali Mohan, tabla maestro Kumar Bose, classical vocalist Tripti Mukherjee, and noted artist Madhavan Ranganathan. Folk artists, sculptors, dancers, musicians, and traditional performers from across India were also recognised for preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage.

This year, the President of India approved a total of 131 Padma Awards, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri honours. The list includes several women achievers, international personalities, and posthumous recognitions. The awards ceremony is expected to take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this year.