New Delhi: Dharmendra’s ultimate bow with the Padma Vibhushan has touched hearts across the nation, even as the honour comes posthumously. Alka Yagnik’s golden voice has earned her Padma Bhushan glory, while Mammootty once again proves his unmatched reign in Indian cinema. Advertising legend Piyush Pandey and veteran actor Satish Shah have been honoured with Padma Shri awards, making this year’s civilian honours truly star-studded.
India’s silver screen and creative icons are shining brighter than ever, as their lifelong contributions to art and entertainment receive national recognition.
Dharmendra (Padma Vibhushan, Posthumous)
Dharmendra, Bollywood’s iconic action hero, began his journey in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. He rose to superstardom with timeless classics such as Haqeeqat, Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Mera Gaon Mera Desh, ruling Hindi cinema from the 1960s through the 1980s. His final film was Ikkis. Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 on November 24, 2025. The Padma Vibhushan 2026 honours his extraordinary lifetime contribution to Indian cinema. In several interviews, he had expressed that he never received the recognition he truly deserved — an absence finally corrected with this prestigious honour, the second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India in the field of arts.
Alka Yagnik (Padma Bhushan)
Alka Yagnik is a legendary playback singer whose soulful voice defined Bollywood romance for decades. She has won multiple Filmfare Awards for Best Female Playback Singer and National Film Awards for her memorable songs. Tracks like Agar Tum Saath Ho earned her Mirchi Music Awards as well. The Padma Bhushan 2026 celebrates her remarkable contribution to Indian music and cinema.
Mammootty (Padma Bhushan)
Mammootty, the megastar of Malayalam cinema, has acted in over 400 films, delivering consistently powerful performances. He has won three National Film Awards for Best Actor, received the Padma Shri in 1998, and earned numerous Kerala State honours. Known for his versatility, he has also bagged several Filmfare and Asianet Awards. The Padma Bhushan 2026 recognises his enduring impact on Indian cinema.
Piyush Pandey (Padma Shri)
Piyush Pandey, widely regarded as the father of modern Indian advertising, created iconic Ogilvy campaigns that achieved global recognition. He became the first Asian to chair the Cannes Lions jury in 2004 and previously received the Padma Shri in 2016. He has also won the Clio Lifetime Achievement Award and the Lion of St. Mark at Cannes 2018 alongside his brother. The Padma Shri 2026 honours his revolutionary contribution to advertising and creative storytelling.
Satish Shah (Padma Shri, Posthumous)
Satish Shah, fondly remembered as the king of comedy, brought laughter to millions through iconic roles such as Indravardhan Sarabhai in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and his performances in Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi. His four-decade-long career spanned television and films, leaving an unforgettable legacy. Following his passing, FWICE strongly advocated for his recognition. The Padma Shri 2026 posthumously honours his immense contribution to Indian entertainment.
These beloved Indian personalities are being honoured for their exceptional achievements in the field of art and entertainment, celebrating legacies that continue to inspire generations.
