R Madhavan reacts to the surrender of: Padma Shrisaying he felt “very humbled” and “very grateful” to receive one of the nation’s highest civilian honors.The actor, who is basking in the success of Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar. The Revenge, shared a picture from the investiture ceremony where he received the award from the President Dropadi Murmu.
‘Humbled and very grateful’
Expressing his gratitude, Madhavan thanked the Government of India for honoring him and the Government of Maharashtra for recommending his name.“I am extremely humbled and very grateful, and truly honored to be conferred with the Padma Shri.My sincere thanks to the Government of India for conferring on me one of the highest civilian honors of our country. I am also grateful to the Government of Maharashtra for recommending my name and putting their faith in my journey. This recognition is something I will cherish for the rest of my life,” he wrote.The actor also dedicated credit to his fans, acknowledging their role in his journey.“To every person who has watched my movies, embraced my characters, celebrated my successes, forgiven my shortcomings, and stood with me through the years—this honor is for you as much as I did. Your love has driven every milestone in my life and career,” he added.
“Every privilege has a greater duty”
Madhavan added that recognition comes with a sense of responsibility.“Today, I also feel a deep sense of responsibility. This recognition reminds me that every privilege has a greater duty-to uphold the values of integrity, humility, and goodness; to contribute meaningfully to the world of cinema that has given me everything; and to serve my country in any way I can,” he wrote.The actor ended his note by dedicating the honor to the cinema, his colleagues and his family.“I dedicate this honor to the magical world of cinema, to every artist and technician who walked with me and to my family who became my strength…From the bottom of my heart, thank you.Jai Hind.”
Priyanka Chopra , Preity Zinta and others congratulate Madhavan
Many members of the film fraternity congratulated Madhavan for the achievement.Priyanka Chopra commented, “So well deserved.”His son Vedaant also expressed his pride, writing, “What an amazing achievement. Very proud.”Preity Zinta wrote, “Congratulations Maddy ❤️🔥❤️🔥 So happy for you. You really deserve it my friend. More power to you.”Bipasha Basu commented, “So 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 others also sent congratulatory messages in the comments section.
Padma Awards 2026
Apart from Madhavan, Malayalam superstar Mammootty and singer Alka Yagnik have been honored with the Padma Bhushan this year. For 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 honors.
