Ahead of the national celebrations, Sunday brought the unofficial Padma Awards 2026 list into the spotlight, naming figures like Kailash Chand, Braj Lal Bhatt, and Dr. Shyam Sundar. Official word from authorities is still forthcoming.
Bestowed on common folk for exceptional service, these accolades spotlight those who triumphed over profound personal losses and societal barriers. Representing Dalits, tribals, remote dwellers, and the disadvantaged, they’ve channeled pain into purpose.
Efforts range from medical breakthroughs—hemophilia research to the first human milk bank—to educational reforms, livelihood programs, sanitation initiatives, sustainable practices, and upliftment of women, children, and the disabled. They’ve safeguarded cultural treasures, bolstered frontier patriotism, revived tribal tongues and arts, protected nature, and driven hygiene revolutions.
Notable recipients: Anke Gowda, Armida Fernandes, Bhagwandas Raikwar, Bhiklya Ladkya Dhinda, Brij Lal Bhat, Budhri Tati, Charan Hembram, Chiranjilal Yadav, Dharmik Lal Chunilal Pandya, Gafaruddin Mewati Jogi, Hailey War, Inderjeet Singh Sidhu, K Pajanivel, Kailash Chandra Pant, Khem Raj Sundriyal, Kollakkayil Devki Amma Ji, Kumarswami Thangraj, Mahendra Kumar Mishra, Meer Haji Bhai Kasam Bhai, Mohan Nagar, Naresh Chandra Dev Verma, Nilesh Vinodchand Mandlevala, Nooruddin Ahmad, Othuvur Thiruthani Swaminathan, Padma Gurmet, Pokhila Lekthepi, Punniyamoorthy Natesan, R Krishnan, Raghu Pat Singh, Raghuvir Tukaram Khedkar, Rajastapati Kaliyappa Gounder, Rama Reddy Mamidi, Ramchandra Godbole and Sunita Godbole, S G Sushilamma, Sangyusang S Pongener, Shafi Shauk, Shrirang Devaba Lad, Shyam Sundar, Simanchal Patro, Suresh Hangavadi, Taga Ram Bhil, Techi Gubin, Thiruvarur Bakthavatsalam, Vish Bandhu Ok, Yumnam Jatra Singh.
In their honor, India celebrates the power of quiet dedication to forge a brighter future.