President Droupadi Murmu awarded the Padma Vibhushan to late actor Dharmendra and classical violinist Dr N. Rajam at a ceremony in New Delhi. Dharmendra was honored for his significant contributions to Indian cinema, with his wife Hema Malini receiving the award on his behalf. Dr. Rajam was recognized for her pioneering work in Indian classical music, particularly the “Gayaki Ang” style of violin playing.
The President also presented the Padma Bhushan to former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari, scholar R. Ganesh, banker Uday Kotak, and gastroenterologist Dr. Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaniswamy. Advertising pioneer Piyush Pandey and former parliamentarian Vijay Kumar Malhotra were posthumously honored.
Among the Padma Shri awardees were Indian women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur, actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, para-athlete Praveen Kumar, and former CRPF Director General K. Vijay Kumar. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries including the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Home Minister, showcased the instrumental rendition of “Vande Mataram” and the national anthem.
The President approved 131 Padma Awards for 2026, including Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri honors. These awards recognize excellence in various fields and are presented at Civil Investiture Ceremonies. The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honors, acknowledge achievements in art, social work, public affairs, science, literature, sports, and civil service.
