India, Jan. 25 -- The list of Padma awardees on the eve of Republic Day 2026 had, in terms of regions, robust representation from the southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu and Kerala. An analysis of the lists reveals some region- and state-wise patterns in the distribution of the 131 Padma awards this year.

Here: See full list of Padma awardees 2026

Maharashtra leads the nation in total awards, with 15 recipients across levels: one Padma Vibhushan (actor Dharmendra Singh Deol), three Padma Bhushan (singer Alka Yagnik, adman Piyush Pandey, businessman Uday Kotak), and 11 Padma Shri awards. It got 14 Padma awards in 2025.

After the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan is the second highest civilian award in India, followed by Padma Bhushan a...