Padma Awards 2026: Mammootty Honoured with Padma Bhushan, Dharmendra Receives Posthumous Padma Vibhushan
As Republic Day 2026 approaches, the Padma Awards for this year have been announced, celebrating some of the biggest names in Indian cinema. Superstar Mammootty has been honoured with the Padma Bhushan, while veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away last year, has been posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan for his immense contribution to the film industry.
When the news broke, Mammootty was in Thiruvananthapuram. Speaking to Mathrubhumi, he expressed his joy, saying, “Santhosham, athi santhosham (Happy, really happy)… There is nothing bigger than receiving this honour from the country.”
With a career spanning over 400 films across Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and several other languages, Mammootty has not only won the hearts of audiences nationwide but also three National Film Awards for his performances. Last year, his contemporary Mohanlal was honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, making this a proud moment for Malayalam cinema. Fans and fellow actors from across the industry quickly shared their warm wishes and congratulations.
For Dharmendra, his passing on November 24, 2025, marked the end of an era. Fondly remembered as the ‘He-Man’ of Indian cinema, his posthumous Padma Vibhushan recognises a lifetime of unforgettable performances and his lasting impact on the film industry.
What’s Next for Mammootty
Mammootty’s fans have plenty to look forward to. Following a cameo in Chatha Pacha, he will take the lead in Patriot, a spy-action drama co-starring Mohanlal after several years. The film, releasing on April 23, 2026, also features Fahadh Faasil, Nayanthara, Kunchacko Boban, Revathy, Darshana Rajendran, and Rajiv Menon in key roles.
In addition, Mammootty is filming Padayaatra with legendary arthouse filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan—a collaboration that marks their fourth project together after 32 years. He is also set to work with director Nithish Sahadev on an upcoming action film and has another project lined up with the producers of Marco.
With such a remarkable legacy and exciting projects on the horizon, Mammootty continues to shine as one of Indian cinema’s most enduring and beloved stars.