Star-Studded Padma Honors: Mammootty, Alka Yagnik, and R Madhavan Shine at 2026 Ceremony

The majestic halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan glimmered with splendor as the Padma Awards, India’s most prestigious civilian distinctions, graced the evening in Delhi. On Tuesday night, the second investiture event unfolded in a grand setting, celebrating titans of cinema, music, and theatre with the revered Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri honors.

A Celebration of Excellence

Among the luminaries, the indomitable presence of actor Mammootty, singer Alka Yagnik, and actor R Madhavan captured the spotlight as they were bestowed with the Padma Bhushan, a testament to their unparalleled contributions to the arts.

The venerable 74-year-old Mammootty, a stalwart of Malayalam cinema, accepted his award under a cascade of applause during the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II. The event, attended by dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saw Mammootty’s talented son, Dulquer Salmaan, share in the pride and joy, cheering enthusiastically for his father.

Mammootty: A Cinematic Icon

With a storied career spanning over 400 films, Mammootty stands as a colossus in the realm of Malayalam cinema. His illustrious journey is marked by three National Film Awards, beginning with his first win in 1989 for the films Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha and Mathilukal. He secured his second award for Vidheyan and Ponthan Madaand in 1999, he was lauded once more for his portrayal of B R Ambedkar in the biographical masterpiece, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Alka Yagnik: The Voice of Generations

The evening also honored the melodious legacy of Alka Yagnik, who received the Padma Bhushan for her enchanting contributions to music. Her voice has serenaded audiences with timeless classics like “Choli Ke Peeche” from Khalnayak“Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se” from heartbeat“Hum Tum” from Hum Tum“Ghoongat Ki Aad Se” from Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Keand the unforgettable “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

R Madhavan: A Versatile Star

As President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Shri to a beaming R Madhavan, his family—wife Sarita and son Vedaant—looked on with pride, applauding his achievements. Known for his versatile roles across Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil cinema, Madhavan’s latest triumph came with the Hindi blockbuster Dhurandhar: The Revenge. His debut directorial venture, Rocketry: The Nambi Effectgarnered acclaim, clinching the National Film Award for Best Feature Film.

Earlier, the first ceremony on May 25 celebrated 131 recipients from various fields, including 113 Padma Shri, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 5 Padma Vibhushan awards, marking a grand celebration of India’s diverse talents.