Ajith Kumar, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Arijit Singh among entertainment icons honoured with Padma Awards

Actor Ajith Kumar was among the prominent names from the entertainment industry to be conferred with the Padma Bhushan by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan earlier today.

Recognised for his outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, Ajith Kumar’s honor was a proud moment for his fans and the film fraternity.

Joining him was veteran Telugu actor Nandamuri Balakrishna, who also received the Padma Bhushan for his significant impact on Indian films. Celebrated filmmaker Shekhar Kapur was awarded the Padma Bhushan as well, lauded for his contribution to global and Indian cinema.

In the field of music, acclaimed singer Arijit Singh was presented the Padma Shri, acknowledging his influence on contemporary Indian music. The late ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas was posthumously awarded the Padma Bhushan for his immense contributions to Indian music.

Actor Ashok Laxman Saraf, known for his remarkable career in Marathi and Hindi cinema, was conferred the Padma Shri. Renowned acting coach and theatre director Barry John also received the Padma Shri for his lifelong dedication to nurturing talent in Indian theatre and film. Singer Jaspinder Narula, celebrated for her powerful voice and contribution to Indian music, was another recipient of the Padma Shri.

The ceremony honored personalities across various fields, with the entertainment industry taking center stage as several of its stalwarts were recognised for their lasting contributions.