India’s prestigious Padma Awards 2026 celebrate outstanding contributions across sports, arts, public service, and social work. This year, cricket icons Harmanpreet Kaur and Rohit Sharma will be honoured with the Padma Shri Award, while several unsung heroes from India’s hinterlands also find recognition on the Padma rolls.
Padma Awards 2026: Recognising Excellence
The Padma Awards—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—are among India’s highest civilian honours, announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.
Harmanpreet Kaur and Rohit Sharma: Sporting Icons Honoured
Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, has been recognised for her transformational role in women’s cricket, inspiring millions with her leadership and fearless batting.
Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most successful cricket captains and batters, receives the Padma Shri for his consistent excellence, record-breaking achievements, and contribution to Indian cricket at the global level.
State Contributions: Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri Awardees
As per official announcements, two individuals from the state have been selected for the Padma Bhushan, while 11 eminent personalities will receive the Padma Shri Award. These honours span fields such as literature, medicine, education, arts, and public service.
Hinterland’s Unsung Heroes on Padma Rolls
A defining highlight of the Padma Awards 2026 is the inclusion of “unsung heroes” from rural and semi-urban India. These individuals have worked quietly in areas like grassroots education, social reform, traditional arts, and community welfare, reinforcing the idea that national impact is not limited to fame or urban centres.
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Why Padma Awards Matter
The Padma Awards celebrate not just celebrity achievements but also service, dedication, and long-term impact. By honouring both national icons and grassroots contributors, India showcases its commitment to inclusive recognition.
Conclusion
The Padma Awards 2026 stand as a powerful reminder of India’s diverse talent and spirit of service. From celebrated sports stars like Harmanpreet Kaur and Rohit Sharma to the nation’s unsung heroes, the awards honour excellence that shapes India’s present and future.
FAQs – Padma Awards 2026
- What are the Padma Awards?
They are India’s highest civilian honours. - When are Padma Awards announced?
On Republic Day eve every year. - Who received Padma Shri in 2026?
Harmanpreet Kaur and Rohit Sharma, among others. - Why was Rohit Sharma awarded Padma Shri?
For his contribution to Indian cricket. - Why was Harmanpreet Kaur honoured?
For elevating women’s cricket in India. - How many Padma categories are there?
Three. - What is Padma Vibhushan?
The highest Padma award. - What is Padma Bhushan?
The second-highest civilian award. - What is Padma Shri?
The fourth-highest civilian award. - How many received Padma Shri in 2026?
Multiple awardees across fields.