The Government of India announced the Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian Awards in the country, on the eve of Republic Day 2024. The three categories are Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. They are given annually to honour people in various fields of activities, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.

Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service whereas Padma Bhushan is for distinguished service of high order. Padma Shri is given to honour people for their distinguished service in any field. According to the list of Padma winners, Indian actors stood bright. 

Chiranjeevi, a veteran actor who has worked in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil and Kannada cinema in his illustrious career, received the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award. In 2006, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to Indian cinema. Veteran actress and dancer Vyjayantimala Bali was also honoured with the Padma Vibhushan.

The prestigious Padma Bhushan was awarded to celebrities like actor Mithun Chakraborty, music director Pyarelal Sharma and singer Usha Uthup. Tamil actor and politician Vijayakanth, who passed away in 2023, was honoured posthumously.

The ceremony is expected to take place in the coming months.