New Delhi – Veteran actor Dharmendra and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan have been awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, posthumously. Esteemed actor Mammootty has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award. The announcement was made as part of the Republic Day honours list, recognizing their significant contributions to their respective fields.
Dharmendra, known for his charismatic screen presence and iconic roles in Hindi cinema spanning over six decades, passed away in April 2024. His career boasts numerous blockbuster films and a dedicated fan base. He was celebrated for his versatility, seamlessly transitioning between action, romance, and comedy. The Padma Vibhushan acknowledges his lifetime of dedication to the art of acting and his cultural impact on the nation.
V.S. Achuthanandan, a towering figure in Kerala’s political landscape, served as the Chief Minister of Kerala from 2006 to 2011. A staunch communist and a prominent leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Achuthanandan was known for his uncompromising principles and his commitment to social justice. He passed away in November 2023. The posthumous Padma Vibhushan recognizes his decades of service to the people of Kerala and his contribution to the political discourse of the country.
Mammootty, a leading actor in Malayalam cinema, has starred in over 400 films, earning widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. His career began in the 1970s, and he remains a dominant force in the industry. Known for his natural acting style and his ability to portray a diverse range of characters, Mammootty has captivated audiences for generations. He is also a successful film producer and a philanthropist.
Other Recipients
The Padma Awards are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These awards recognize achievements in various fields, including art, social work, public affairs, science, and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service. The awards are given annually on the eve of Republic Day.
This year’s list also includes several other prominent personalities from various walks of life. The selection process is rigorous, involving recommendations from state governments, central ministries, and various organizations. A high-level committee, headed by the Prime Minister, reviews the nominations and makes the final recommendations to the President of India.
The recognition of Dharmendra, Achuthanandan, and Mammootty with these prestigious awards underscores their enduring legacy and their significant contributions to Indian society. Their work continues to inspire and influence generations, solidifying their place in the nation’s history. The awards ceremony is expected to be held in March 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The Padma Bhushan awarded to Mammootty is a testament to the thriving Malayalam film industry and its contribution to Indian cinema. It also highlights the importance of recognizing artistic excellence at the national level. The awards serve as a source of pride for the recipients and their respective communities.
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