Padma Awards 2026: Honouring India's Unsung Heroes and Extraordinary Achievers

The prestigious ceremony was held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The remaining Padma Awards 2026 were handed to the awardees by President Droupadi Murmu at the Second Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi on 23 June 2026. The ceremony recognized 65 eminent personalities, two of whom received the Padma Vibhusan and seven the Padma Bhushan and 56 were Padma Shri awardees for their exemplary performance in various areas including art, literature, education, science, medicine, sports, social service, public affairs, and industry. Some of the big names included singer Alka Yagnik, actor Mammootty, actor R. Madhavan and former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma. The event was a testament to India's dedication towards celebrating excellence in various fields, while also honoring those who have made a significant impact on the nation's society.

• The History of Padma Awards

The Government of India has instituted the Padma Awards in 1954, which are among the highest civilian awards of the country after the Bharat Ratna. The awards, which were first launched to pay tribute to outstanding performance in different areas, have since become one of the most highly regarded traditions in India to honour excellence. The medals are awarded annually (on 26 January, on Republic Day) but are presented late in the year by the President in one or more Civil Investiture Ceremonies at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

• Learning about the Three Categories

Padma Awards consist of three categories:

1. Padma Vibhushan – For exceptional and distinguished services of the highest order.

2. Padma Bhushan – For distinguished services of high order.

3. Padma Shri – Awarded for exceptional and outstanding contribution for service in any field such as sports, medicine, literature, social work, education, engineering, trade, civil service, and arts.

Padma Awards aren't like most awards that are restricted to celebrities or government persons. These honors can also be bestowed upon ordinary citizens, social workers, scientists, teachers, artisans and innovators for their outstanding achievements.

Why These Awards Matter

The purpose of the Padma Awards is to honor people who have made significant contribution towards the betterment of the society and have inspired others. In the past few decades the Government of India has been keen on recognizing the work of the "unsung heroes," those who work for the public without seeking recognition. In recent years, tribal artists who have managed to preserve their traditional arts, environmental activists who have fought to keep forests from being destroyed, doctors serving remote villages and teachers who have transformed rural education have all been recognised as some of the world's most inspiring figures. This has led to inclusion and a better representation of the diversity of India in the awards.

India's Cultural Diversity in a mirror.

The Padma Awards are remarkable even in that they honor the people of the country, from every corner of the country. The awardees are from various States, languages, cultures, and professions to illustrate that excellence has no geographical or social limit. The awards also honor members of the Indian community abroad, and in some instances foreigners who have enhanced India's image abroad or made a contribution to humanity.

More Than a Medal

Padma Award is not just a medal, it is a symbol of the country's gratitude. It celebrates years of dedication, perseverance and service to society. The awards recognize excellence in various fields, such as science and technology, sports, and grassroots development, and inspire future generations to strive for excellence through integrity and commitment.

In its pursuit of a developed India, the Padma Awards serve as a testament to the idea that development is not solely the responsibility of the government and institutions, but is a product of the efforts of thousands of individuals like the ones we honor today, who do great things to make the lives of others better. Each one embodies the spirit of service, innovation, and determination that continues to pave the way for this nation's future.