Actors Mammootty and singer Alka Yagnik were conferred the Padma Bhushan, while actor R Madhavan received the Padma Shri at the second Padma Awards ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. A total of 65 individuals were felicitated at the event, spanning diverse fields of contribution to Indian society.

Key Highlights of the Ceremony

President Droupadi Murmu presided over the investiture, conferring 2 Padma Vibhushan, 7 Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri awards. This was the second such ceremony this season — on 26 May, 66 individuals had been honoured in the first round. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Mammootty and his actor son Dulquer Salmaan following Tuesday's event.

Alka Yagnik on Her Padma Bhushan

When the Padma Bhushan recipients were announced in January, Alka Yagnik shared her reaction in a heartfelt note, writing: 'I am deeply grateful to the Government of India for bestowing upon me the Padma Bhushan. After decades in the film and music industry, this honour feels both humbling and deeply emotional.'

Extending her gratitude further, she added: 'My heartfelt thanks to the filmmakers, composers, lyricists, co-singers, musicians, technicians, press, media and every individual who forms the soul of our movies! This journey would not have been possible without you. To my friends, family, and listeners...your love has been my constant strength. This music, this journey, and this moment belong to all of us. Love, Alka.'

R Madhavan's Reaction to the Padma Shri

R Madhavan, honoured with the Padma Shri for his contributions to Indian cinema, said: 'I accept the Padma Shri with profound gratitude and humility. This honor, bestowed upon me, is beyond my wildest dreams, and I receive it on behalf of my entire family, whose constant support and faith have been my greatest strength.'

He added that the recognition was made possible by 'the blessings of my mentors, the goodwill of my well-wishers, the love and encouragement of the public, and above all, the grace of the Almighty.'

What the Honours Mean for Indian Entertainment

The recognition of three major entertainment figures in a single ceremony underscores the Padma Awards' broadening scope across regional and mainstream Indian cinema. Mammootty, one of Malayalam cinema's most decorated actors, joins a distinguished list of film personalities who have received the Padma Bhushan — India's third-highest civilian honour. Notably, Alka Yagnik is among the most-streamed Indian artists globally, making her recognition a milestone that bridges legacy artistry and contemporary reach.

With the two ceremonies combined, a total of 131 individuals have received Padma honours this season, reflecting the widest distribution in recent years.