R Madhavan has reacted to being conferred with the Padma Shri, saying he feels “deeply humbled” and “profoundly grateful” to receive one of the country’s highest civilian honours.The actor, who has been basking in the success of Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge, shared a picture from the investiture ceremony where he received the award from President Droupadi Murmu.
‘Deeply humbled and profoundly grateful’
Expressing his gratitude, Madhavan thanked the Government of India for honouring him and the Government of Maharashtra for recommending his name.“I am deeply humbled and profoundly grateful, and truly honored to be conferred with the Padma Shri.My heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India for bestowing upon me one of our nation’s highest civilian honors. I am equally thankful to the Government of Maharashtra for recommending my name and placing their faith in my journey. This recognition is something I will cherish for the rest of my life,” he wrote.The actor also dedicated the honour to his fans, acknowledging their role in his journey.“To every person who watched my films, embraced my characters, celebrated my successes, forgave my shortcomings, and stood by me through the years—this honor belongs as much to you as it does to me. Your affection has been the driving force behind every milestone in my life and career,” he added.
‘Every privilege carries with it a greater duty’
Madhavan further said that the recognition comes with a sense of responsibility.“Today, I also feel a deep sense of responsibility. This recognition reminds me that every privilege carries with it a greater duty—to uphold the values of integrity, humility, and excellence; to contribute meaningfully to the world of cinema that has given me everything; and to serve my country in whatever way I can,” he wrote.The actor concluded his note by dedicating the honour to cinema, his colleagues and his family.“I dedicate this honor to the magical world of cinema, to every artist and technician who has walked alongside me and to my family who have been my strength…From the bottom of my heart, thank you.Jai Hind.”
Priyanka Chopra , Preity Zinta and others congratulate Madhavan
Several members of the film fraternity congratulated Madhavan on the achievement.Priyanka Chopra commented, “So well deserved.”His son Vedaant also expressed his pride, writing, “What an amazing achievement. So proud.”Preity Zinta wrote, “Congratulations Maddy ❤️🔥❤️🔥 So happy for you. You truly deserve it my friend. More power to you.”Bipasha Basu commented, “So so proud of you 🩷👏 Congratulations.”Namrata Shirodkar wrote, “Congratulations Maddy … very well deserved 🙌👏👏👏 celebrations are in order!!”Actors Neil Nitin Mukesh, Sunil Grover, Shamita Shetty and several others also sent congratulatory messages in the comments section.
Padma Awards 2026
Apart from Madhavan, Malayalam superstar Mammootty and singer Alka Yagnik were honoured with the Padma Bhushan this year. For the late actor Satish Shah, his brother Arvind Shah received the award on his behalf.This year, President Droupadi Murmu approved 131 Padma Awards, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri honours.