New Delhi, June 24, 2026: India celebrated excellence in sports, cinema, music, and public service as President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma Awards on distinguished personalities during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Among the most prominent recipients were former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, who received the Padma Shri, and legendary Malayalam actor Mammootty, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan.
The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours and recognize exceptional contributions across various fields, including arts, sports, literature, science, medicine, and public affairs. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, and several other dignitaries. A total of 65 awardees were honoured during the event.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the recognition of Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most successful cricket captains. The veteran cricketer received the Padma Shri for his outstanding contribution to Indian cricket and his remarkable achievements over the years. Rohit has been one of the most influential figures in modern cricket, leading India across formats and guiding the national team to multiple international successes.
Rohit’s cricketing journey began in humble circumstances before he emerged as one of the finest batsmen in world cricket. He holds several batting records, including being the only player to score three double centuries in One Day Internationals. His leadership and consistency have made him one of the most respected figures in Indian sports. The Padma Shri serves as recognition of his contribution not only to cricket but also to inspiring millions of young athletes across the country.
Another major moment of the evening was the conferring of the Padma Bhushan upon Mammootty, one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema. With a career spanning more than five decades, Mammootty has become a cultural icon whose influence extends far beyond the Malayalam film industry. The prestigious honour recognizes his immense contribution to Indian cinema and his lasting impact on generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Mammootty attended the ceremony with members of his family, including his wife Sulfath and actor-son Dulquer Salmaan. The occasion was particularly emotional for fans and the film fraternity, who have long regarded him as one of India’s finest performers. Throughout his career, Mammootty has delivered critically acclaimed performances across multiple languages and has earned numerous national and state-level awards.
Apart from Rohit Sharma and Mammootty, several other notable personalities were honoured. Renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik received the Padma Bhushan for her contribution to Indian music, while actor R. Madhavan was conferred with the Padma Shri. The ceremony showcased the diversity of talent and excellence that continues to shape India’s cultural and sporting landscape.
The Padma Awards remain one of the most prestigious recognitions bestowed by the Government of India. Every year, individuals from different backgrounds are selected based on their extraordinary service and achievements. The awards not only celebrate personal success but also inspire future generations to pursue excellence in their respective fields.
For cricket fans, Rohit Sharma’s recognition marked another milestone in an already illustrious career. For cinema lovers, Mammootty’s Padma Bhushan served as a fitting tribute to a legendary actor whose contributions have shaped Indian filmmaking for decades. The honours reflect the nation’s appreciation for individuals who have brought pride and recognition to India on national and international stages.
As the ceremony concluded, the achievements of the awardees stood as a reminder of the power of dedication, talent, and perseverance. Whether on the cricket field or on the silver screen, personalities like Rohit Sharma and Mammootty continue to inspire millions and represent the very best of India’s sporting and cultural heritage.
