Ajith, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Shekhar Kapur Receive Padma Bhushan; Late Singer Pankaj Udhas Honoured Posthumously

At the Padma Awards 2025 ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu honoured key figures from Indian cinema and music, including Ajith, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Shekhar Kapur, and the late Pankaj Udhas.

New Delhi, April 28, 2025 —
The prestigious Padma Awards 2025 ceremony was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, where several distinguished personalities from the entertainment world were honoured by President Droupadi Murmu.

Among the recipients of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, were Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar, Telugu cinema legend Nandamuri Balakrishna, and acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur. Additionally, the late ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas was honoured posthumously, with his wife Farida Udhas accepting the award on his behalf.

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🎬 Ajith Kumar: Tamil Cinema’s Pride

Ajith Kumar, widely celebrated for his versatile performances in the Tamil film industry, accepted the honour with a warm smile as his family — wife Shalini Ajith, daughter Anoushka, and son Aadvik — cheered proudly from the audience.
The official handle of the President of India praised Ajith, stating:

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“He is a towering figure in Indian cinema, known for portraying a wide spectrum of characters and for his philanthropic activities carried out without seeking public attention. He is also an accomplished motorsport enthusiast.”

🎥 Nandamuri Balakrishna: A Legacy Beyond Films

Telugu superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna, whose cinematic journey spans over five decades, was recognized not only for his contribution to films but also for his social service.

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“He is recognised for his services to cancer patients as Chairman of a cancer hospital providing affordable care to the underserved,” noted the President’s post.

🎞️ Shekhar Kapur: A Visionary Filmmaker

Veteran filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who has made a significant mark both in Indian and international cinema with works like Masoom, Mr. India, Bandit Queen, and Elizabeth, was also awarded the Padma Bhushan.

“A visionary whose films have redefined cinema and inspired generations of storytellers,” said the President’s citation.

🎶 Honouring Pankaj Udhas’ Legacy

The late ghazal legend Pankaj Udhas was remembered for his immense contribution to music and philanthropy. His wife, Farida Udhas, accepted the Padma Bhushan on his behalf.

“He was instrumental in popularising ghazals among the masses and actively supported cancer and thalassemia patients,” stated the Government of India.

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Padma Bhushan 2025, Ajith Kumar, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Shekhar Kapur, Pankaj Udhas, Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu, Padma Awards, Bollywood, South Indian Cinema, Indian Cinema Awards