Southern states dominate Padma Awards list
The Padma Awards 2026, announced on the eve of Republic Day, highlight the growing prominence of southern India. Of the 131 awardees, southern states account for nearly 40 honours. Kerala and Tamil Nadu emerge as key contributors. Notably, Kerala secured three of the five Padma Vibhushan awards, the country’s second-highest civilian honour. This marks a clear rise from last year. Overall, the South increased its share compared to 2025, reinforcing its strong national presence.
Kerala gains top honours despite moderate tally
Although Kerala received eight Padma awards in total, the state stood out due to the level of recognition. Former Supreme Court judge KT Thomas, senior RSS leader P Narayanan, and late former Chief Minister VS Achuthanandhan received the Padma Vibhushan. Achuthanandhan served as Kerala’s chief minister from 2006 to 2011. Authorities recognised KT Thomas for his role in judicial reforms and policy development. Meanwhile, P Narayanan earned the honour for his contributions to journalism, literature, and social reform. Together, these recognitions placed Kerala at the centre of this year’s honours.
Maharashtra tops national list; Tamil Nadu follows
At the national level, Maharashtra topped the list with 15 Padma awards, the highest among all states. The tally includes one Padma Vibhushan, three Padma Bhushan, and 11 Padma Shri honours. The government honoured actor Dharmendra Singh Deol with the Padma Vibhushan. Tamil Nadu followed with 13 awards, matching its count from last year. Most honours came under the Padma Shri category. However, gastroenterologist K R Palaniswamy and industrialist SKM Maeilanandhan received Padma Bhushan awards.
Bengal’s numbers rise as regional balance shifts
Regionally, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh recorded 11 awards each. Uttar Pradesh included one Padma Vibhushan recipient. In contrast, West Bengal earned recognition entirely through Padma Shri awards. Importantly, Bengal increased its tally from eight last year. Meanwhile, North India saw a decline in total awards compared to 2025. West India also recorded a slight dip. Additionally, authorities announced 16 Padma awards posthumously, acknowledging lifetime contributions. Overall, the Padma Awards 2026 reflect a shifting regional balance, with southern states leading this Republic Day.resence.
West Bengal numbers rise as regional patterns shift
Regionally, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh received 11 awards each. While Uttar Pradesh included one Padma Vibhushan, West Bengal’s honours were all Padma Shri. Importantly, Bengal’s count rose from eight last year. In contrast, North India saw a decline in total awards compared to 2025. West India’s tally also dipped slightly. Meanwhile, 16 awards were announced posthumously, underlining recognition of lifetime contributions. Overall, the Padma Awards 2026 reflect shifting regional balances, with the South emerging as a major beneficiary this Republic Day.
