Padma Bhushan Awards 2026: The prestigious Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi is all set to witness a historic moment today, June 23, 2026.
President Droupadi Murmu will host the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II to confer the prestigious Padma Awards on 65 exceptional individuals.
Among the prominent names being celebrated this evening are Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty and India’s beloved playback singer Alka Yagnik, both of whom will receive the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor.
The grand event, scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM, will be attended by Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several other top dignitaries.
A Milestone in the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II
Padma Bhushan Awards 2026: Today’s ceremony marks the second phase of the 2026 civilian honors. Earlier, during the First Civil Investiture Ceremony held on May 25, President Murmu presented 65 awards. Today, an additional 65 awards will be handed out, including:
2 Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service)
7 Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of high order)
56 Padma Shri (for distinguished service in any field)
Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards recognize outstanding contributions across diverse fields like art, literature, sports, medicine, and social work.
Mammootty: A Cinematic Legend’s New Triumph
Padma Bhushan Awards 2026: Malayalam megastar Mammootty has reached New Delhi ahead of the ceremony to receive his Padma Bhushan.
Known for his unmatched versatility and powerful performances, Mammootty has been a pillar of Indian cinema for decades.
Whether it is his iconic role in Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, his emotionally charged performance in Peranbu, or his recent critically acclaimed role in Bramayugam, he has consistently redefined acting.
While he primarily works in Malayalam cinema, his brilliant performances in Tamil and other languages have earned him a global fanbase.
Interestingly, this isn’t his first national honor; he was awarded the Padma Shri back in 1998. The Padma Bhushan 2026 adds another glorious feather to his legendary career.
Alka Yagnik: The Voice That Defined Generations
Joining the ranks of the Padma Bhushan awardees is the melody queen, Alka Yagnik. For over three decades, her soulful voice has been the heartbeat of Bollywood music.
Dominating the 1990s and 2000s, Alka Yagnik has delivered countless chartbusters.
Her unforgettable tracks in landmark movies like Khalnayak, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and Taal continue to resonate with music lovers today.
This award recognizes her monumental and timeless contribution to the Indian music industry.
Other Notable Dignitaries in the Spotlight
The list of awardees features several other prominent personalities from political, legal, and sporting arenas:
Shibu Soren: The former Union Minister and founder of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) will be posthumously honored with the Padma Bhushan.
Vijay Amritraj: The legendary Indian tennis star is also among the elite group receiving the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contribution to sports.
Justice (Retd.) K.T. Thomas & P. Narayanan: Both will receive the highest honor of the day, the Padma Vibhushan, for Public Affairs and Literature & Education, respectively.
A Global Touch: International Achievers Honored
Reflecting India’s deep global connections, the 2026 Padma Awards list includes prominent international figures.
Dr. Dattatreyudu Nori from the United States will be conferred the Padma Bhushan for his pioneering work in Medicine. Similarly, Prof. Prateek Sharma will receive the Padma Shri in the same field.
From Russia, Liudmila Khokhlova will be recognized with a Padma Shri for her contributions to Literature and Education.
Additionally, Georgia’s Vladimer Mestvirishvili will be posthumously awarded the Padma Shri for his achievements in Sports.
From the domestic front, Professor Mahendra Nath Roy from West Bengal will receive the Padma Shri for his brilliant research in Science and Engineering.
Celebrating the Best of Humanity
The Civil Investiture Ceremony-II is a celebration of human excellence, dedication, and service.
As President Droupadi Murmu honors these phenomenal individuals tonight, the nation joins in celebrating icons like Mammootty and Alka Yagnik, whose art has brought joy to millions of lives across the globe.