The Union government announced the Padma Awards 2026 on January 25, honouring eminent personalities for their exceptional contribution to India’s cultural, artistic, and public life. This year’s list features several celebrated names from Indian cinema and sports, prompting an outpouring of congratulatory messages from leading stars across industries.
Actors Jr NTR and Mahesh Babu were among the first to publicly acknowledge the honour, calling it a moment of national pride as legendary figures like Dharmendra and Mammootty were recognised for their decades-long impact on Indian cinema.
Jr NTR Applauds Cinema Legends and Sporting Icons
Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Jr NTR congratulated all Padma Award recipients, with special praise for veteran actor Dharmendra, who has been conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour.
“Heartiest congratulations to all the #PadmaAwards 2026 winners. What an incredible honour… A moment of pride as legend Dharmendra ji is conferred with the Padma Vibhushan,” Jr NTR wrote.
He also highlighted the achievements of Telugu cinema stalwarts Murali Mohan and Rajendra Prasad, both recipients of the Padma Shri, calling their contributions “timeless” and deeply influential.
Extending his wishes to Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty, who received the Padma Bhushan, Jr NTR noted:
“Congratulations to @mammukka sir on receiving the Padma Bhushan for inspiring generations through decades of remarkable work.”
Jr NTR further praised R Madhavan for his versatility and lasting contribution to Indian cinema and congratulated sports stars Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur, both honoured with the Padma Shri.
“Your passion and excellence light up the nation… Jai Hind!” he added.
Mahesh Babu Calls Recognition a Celebration of Excellence
Actor Mahesh Babu echoed similar sentiments, applauding the Padma Awards for recognising excellence at the highest level.
“Heartening to see excellence being recognised and celebrated at the highest level… A proud moment to see Dharmendra ji conferred with the Padma Vibhushan,” he wrote.
He also congratulated Mammootty on receiving the Padma Bhushan and extended his wishes to Murali Mohan, Rajendra Prasad, R Madhavan, Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur for their Padma Shri honours.
“My hearty congratulations to all the other awardees honoured with the Padma Awards 2026,” Mahesh Babu added.
Mohanlal Shares a Heartfelt Note for Mammootty
Adding a personal touch, legendary actor Mohanlal congratulated his longtime colleague and friend Mammootty with an affectionate message.
“Ichakka, absolutely delighted to know you’ve been conferred the Padma Bhushan. Heartfelt congratulations. Wishing you continued grace and glory.”
Padma Awards 2026: Celebrating Lasting Contributions
The Padma Awards—comprising the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—remain among India’s most prestigious civilian honours. The 2026 recipients from cinema and sports reflect the nation’s deep appreciation for artists and achievers whose work has transcended generations and borders.
The recognition of icons like Dharmendra and Mammootty has been widely welcomed by fans and peers alike, reinforcing their legacy as pillars of Indian cinema.
