New Delhi, Jan 26: The prestigious Padma Awards were announced on Sunday, recognising individuals for their exceptional contributions to various fields, including arts, literature, education, and more. Among the recipients of the Padma Shri 2026 are renowned figures such as Kuchipudi dancer and choreographer Deepika Reddy from Telangana, theatre icon Hari Madhab Mukhopadhyay (Posthumous) from West Bengal, musician Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsa, and veteran storyteller and folk artist Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya, all of whom have been honoured for their dedication and service to the nation.
In West Bengal’s Balurghat, several BJP leaders arrived to felicitate the late Harimadhav Mukhopadhyay's wife, Reena Mukhopadhyay, and son, Krishnendu Mukhopadhyay. Speaking to ANI, Krishnendu expressed immense pride and joy at his father's posthumous recognition. He said, “It’s a matter of great joy and immense happiness. I'm experiencing this as his son, and I'm proud that the Central Government has recognised his contributions to the field of theatre. His works, firmly rooted in Balurghat, created a unique genre of theatre and he was a pioneer of theatre in North Bengal.”
Musician Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsa also expressed his gratitude upon receiving the Padma Shri 2026. “I am very happy... I would like to thank President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I also thank the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for recommending me for this award,” he said.
Telangana’s Kuchipudi dancer and choreographer, Deepika Reddy, who has been a stalwart in the field for over five decades, reflected on her journey with deep humility. "I am totally overwhelmed and humbled by this honour. It’s been a journey of five and a half decades, and I’m incredibly grateful. I thank my parents, my gurus, especially Vempati Chinna Satyam, my family, and my students for their constant support. I am proud to see the younger generation excelling in Kuchipudi today," she said, expressing her joy at the recognition.
Eminent dholak player from Gujarat, Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai, will also be conferred the Padma Shri 2026 in the field of Art. Speaking of his journey, he said, “It started with my father. Over the years, I performed at 20,000 programs and worked at temples. Today, when I heard my name for the Padma Shri, I felt my life is complete. PM Narendra Modi’s blessings have made my life successful.”
Veteran storyteller and folk artist Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya shared his feelings upon receiving the award: “I am overjoyed to receive the Padma Shri. My father's friend encouraged me to follow this tradition after my father’s passing. I studied poet Premanand, and with God’s grace, I found success. Today, two generations in my family are continuing this tradition.”
The Padma Awards, one of India's highest civilian honours, are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a higher order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field of activity. These awards are a testament to the profound impact these individuals have made across various domains, enriching India's cultural and social fabric.
