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New Delhi: Several distinguished personalities from across fields were honored with the prestigious Padma Awards by President Droupadi Murmu during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at the Ganatantra Mandap in Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.

Among the notable recipients were tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, veteran actor Mammootty, and renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik, who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields.

During the ceremony, former Supreme Court judge K.T. Thomas was conferred the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to public affairs, while eminent Malayalam journalist P. Narayanan received the same honor for his work in literature and education.

The Padma Bhushan awardees included Mammootty, Alka Yagnik, celebrated oncologist Dattatreyudu Nori, tennis icon Vijay Amritraj, industrialist S.K.M. Maeilanandhan, and social worker-educationist Vellappally Natesan. Rupi Soren accepted the Padma Bhushan on behalf of her late husband and JMM founder Shibu Soren.

Earlier, on the eve of Republic Day, the government had announced 131 Padma Awards for 2026, including five Padma Vibhushan awards.

The first Civil Investiture Ceremony, held on May 25, saw President Murmu present 65 Padma Awards, comprising two Padma Vibhushan, six Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri honors.

The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honors, are presented in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These awards recognize exceptional achievements and distinguished service across various fields, including art, literature, education, sports, medicine, science, public affairs, social work, trade, industry, and civil services.

While the Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan recognizes distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri honors distinguished contributions in any field of endeavor.