The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the Padma awards on the eve of Republic Day (25 January 2026). Honouring the individuals for their distinctive contributions across various disciplines, this year the government will confer 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri. Of these, 19 awardees are women, six are from the category of Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI, and 16 are posthumous awards.
Among all the awardees, some recognisable names have represented India and brought glory to the country in their respective domains. So, let’s find out about those awardees and the contributions that have earned them some of the highest civilian honours of the country.
Shri Dharmendra Deol — Padma Vibhushan (posthumously)
One of the enduring stars of Indian cinema, Dharmendra was known for his “He-Man” persona and charismatic screen presence. He starred in more than 300 films, and his roles often left a lasting impression on audiences. In recognition of his contribution, he was earlier awarded the Padma Bhushan (2012) and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1997). He has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan posthumously (2026).
Mammootty — Padma Bhushan
Mammootty is an Indian actor and film producer who works predominantly in the Malayalam film industry. Over five decades, his work has gained recognition across India and helped elevate the profile of Malayalam cinema. He was earlier conferred the Padma Shri and has won multiple National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards and other honours; he has now been awarded the Padma Bhushan (2026).
Vijay Amritraj — Padma Bhushan
Vijay Amritraj is a legendary Indian tennis player who took Indian tennis to the global stage. Known for his elegant serve-and-volley game, he reached the quarterfinals of Wimbledon and the US Open and played a key role in India’s strong Davis Cup performances. A recipient of the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri, he was conferred the Padma Bhushan in recognition of his lasting contribution to Indian tennis and his role as a global sports ambassador.
Alka Yagnik — Padma Bhushan
Alka Yagnik is one of India’s leading playback singers and has won the hearts of listeners with her voice. Songs such as “Agar Tum Saath Ho”, “Chura Ke Dil Mera” and “Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hain Dil Se” are among her popular numbers. Recognising her contribution to Indian music, she has won multiple Filmfare Awards and two National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer, and she has been conferred the Padma Bhushan (2026).
Rohit Sharma — Padma Shri
Rohit Sharma, an Indian batter and former India captain in ICC events, is known for his aggressive strokeplay and strategic leadership. Under his captaincy, India won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (2024) and the ICC Champions Trophy (2025), landmark victories that strengthened India’s standing in international white-ball cricket. He has been named for the Padma Shri (2026).
R. Madhavan — Padma Shri
R. Madhavan is a celebrated actor, producer, director and writer who has worked in both Hindi and regional film industries. Films such as 3 Idiots, Tanu Weds Manu, and Vikram Vedha have established him as a versatile performer. Expanding his role behind the camera, he directed Rocketry: The Nambi Effect (2022), which won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film (2023); he has been nominated for the Padma Shri (2026).
Harmanpreet Kaur — Padma Shri
Harmanpreet Kaur is the Indian women’s team captain and has been credited with helping women’s cricket flourish in the country. Her fearless batting, tactical leadership and calm decision-making in tense situations have been key to India’s recent successes; she has been conferred the Padma Shri (2026).
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