Padma Bhushan Awards 2025: Ajith Kumar, Shobhana and more make the list

The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honors, were announced on Saturday, January 25, ahead of Republic Day.

Among the recipients of the Padma Bhushan were four prominent figures from South Indian cinema: Anant Nag, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Shobana Chandrakumar, and Ajith Kumar.

According to reports, 139 individuals were recognised this year for their contributions across various fields, including arts, social work, science, business, and public affairs.

These awards include the Padma Vibhushan for “exceptional and distinguished service,” the Padma Bhushan for “distinguished service of high order,” and the Padma Shri for “distinguished service in any field.”

Here's a lowdown on the four major talents from the film industry who will be bestowed this honour:

Veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag, celebrated for his contributions to Indian cinema and theater, received the Padma Bhushan for his illustrious career spanning over four decades. Known for his versatility, Nag has delivered memorable performances in films such as Ankur (1974), Godhi Banna Sadharana Mykattu (2016), and the KGF franchise.

“When you are a professional actor, you cannot sustain yourself through parallel cinema alone... The years I toiled in theatre, learning from the best, have stood me in good stead for 45 years," he said in an earlier interview.

Telugu actor and politician Nandamuri Balakrishna, fondly called ‘Balayya’ by his fans, was honoured for his contributions to Indian cinema and public service. Known for his larger-than-life roles in films like Aditya 369 (1991) and Narasimha Naidu (2001), Balakrishna is also a serving MLA from Hindupuram, Andhra Pradesh. He's also a controversy magnet. In 2024, during a promotional event, a video surfaced showing him allegedly pushing actress Anjali off the stage. While the incident sparked outrage on social media, Anjali later clarified that it was unintentional, attempting to downplay the controversy. In another separate incident in 2016, he was slammed for declaring during a public speech that women should be "kissed and impregnated, not admired." The remarks, seen as sexist and offensive, led to protests and condemnation, forcing him to issue an apology.

Acclaimed actor and Bharatnatyam exponent Shobana Chandrakumar received the Padma Bhushan for her contributions to the performing arts. A two-time National Award winner, Shobana is known for her roles in films such as Manichitrathazhu (1993) and Mitr, My Friend (2001). She has acted in over 200 films and featured in dozens of blockbusters starring Mohanlal and Mammootty. She is one of Kerala’s beloved stars and was earlier honoured with the Padma Shri title for her contributions to cinema and dance. In an earlier interview with Gulf News, she said that juggling movies and dance shows weren't easy.

"It’s not that I don’t want to do more Malayalam films, but it has to work in terms of my time and space in life ... Whether I like dancing or acting is a question that confounds me,” said Shobana in that interview with Gulf News.

Actor and professional racer Ajith Kumar, popularly known as ‘Thala’, was recognised for his contributions to Indian cinema and motorsport. In a rare interview secured by Gulf News in 2025, Ajith spoke about how he doesn't take fame or failure too seriously.

His career is filled with blockbusters and includes hits such as Vaali (1999), Mankatha (2011), and Nerkonda Paarvai (2019).

In response to the honor, Ajith expressed his gratitude: “To all my fans, supporters, and well-wishers: Your unwavering love and support have fueled my passion and dedication. This award is as much yours as it is mine.”