15 Bollywood Stars Who Were Honored With The Prestigious Padma Shri Award
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Wouldn’t it be great to win the Padma Shri Award? It is one of the highest civilian awards in the Republic of India. It is awarded to citizens of our country who have made renowned contributions in various fields like art, science, education, medicine, social affairs and other important aspects of society. After the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan, this prestigious accolade is ranked fourth and awarded by the Government of India every year on January 26th, Republic Day. It is handed over personally by the President of India. Exciting isn’t it? Well, this year on Republic Day, Bollywood celebs like Kangana Ranaut and Karan Johar received this distinguished title. It made Bollywood fans proud and we are here to bring to you a list of celebrities who have won the Padma Shri Award for their contribution to art and films in the past. Brace yourself to find out if your favorite star has been a recipient.
- Aishwarya Rai
Miss World 1994 is not the only title this gorgeous actress won. Aishwarya Rai was awarded the Padma Shri in 2009 by former President of India, Pratibha Patil. The beautiful actress, whose eyes have always stood out as one of her most loved features has pledged to donate them after her death. Wow, Aish!
- Rekha
The iconic actress, Rekha, known for playing strong women characters in her movies, won the hearts of millions of fans with her performances. The veteran actress was granted the Padma Shri in 2010 for her contribution to cinema with her legendary roles.
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Remember the movie Black that tugged hard at our heartstrings? Sanjay Leela Bhansali blessed us with that movie. The famous director, screenwriter, producer, and music director has wowed us with some amazing movies over the years. The Devdas director was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015.
- Sridevi
The veteran actress was considered the first female superstar of Bollywood. Sridevi has acted in several films including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Hindi movies. The late actress was presented the Padma Shri in 2013. She died in 2018 in a tragic accidental drowning and shattered millions of hearts.
- Anupam Kher
Acted in over 500 films across the world, Anupam Kher is one of the finest talents we’ve witnessed in Bollywood. The A Wednesday actor was awarded Padma Shri in 2004. He also won the Padma Bhushan in 2016. Remarkable, isn’t it?
- Tabu
Beautiful and elegant, Tabu has acted in several critically-acclaimed films and has never failed to impress her audience. Her performance in her latest release Andhadhun was praised beyond words. The versatile actress was conferred the Padma Shri in 2011.
- Kamal Haasan
South Indian megastar, Kamal Haasan has proven time and again that he can take on any role as an actor. His brilliant performances and contribution to cinema won him the Padma Shri in 1990 and the Padma Bhushan in 2014. Truly well deserved!
- Vidya Balan
Known for the roles she plays in female-led movies, Vidya Balan is an actress who stands out with her choice of movies and her fashion style. The Dirty Picture actress was granted the Padma Shri in 2014.
- Hema Malini
Acclaimed actress of the 70s, Hema Malini received the Padma Shri in the year 2000. She was one of the most talented and highest-paid actresses of her time. Hema Malini is fondly called the “Dream Girl” of Bollywood.
- Kajol
Fondly remembered as Anjali, Kajol was one of the top actresses in the 90s. Her memorable performances in movies like Baazigar, KKHH, and DDLJ made her an iconic B-town diva. She conferred the Padma Shri in 2011. Her 2020 short film Devi sent out a hard-hitting message on the rape culture in India and is a must-watch!
- Amitabh Bachchan
Of course, Big B has to be on this list! The iconic Amitabh Bachchan, who is now 77 years old has not stopped impressing us with his everlasting acting career (Lucky Us!). It is no wonder that he was a recipient of the Padma Shri in 1984.
- Aamir Khan
A perfectionist in acting and choosing the kind of films to act in, Aamir Khan is an actor and director who makes thought-provoking movies. The Dil Chahta Hai actor was granted the Padma Shri in 2003 by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
- Irrfan Khan
A fine actor whose performances warm our hearts, Irrfan Khan is an international celeb too. His movies like Lunchbox, Piku, Haider, and Talvar show his versatility as an actor. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2011.
- Priyanka Chopra
Bet you were wondering why Piggy Chops was not on the list. Well, the Quantico actress conferred the Padma Shri in 2016. Her incredible performances in Padmaavat, Barfi, Fashion, and others have won a special place in our hearts.
- Madhuri Dixit
Graceful and talented, Madhuri Dixit was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. She was granted the Padma Shri in 2008. The beautiful actress is considered one of the most influential celebrities of Bollywood.
Winning the Padma Shri is a tremendous honor and these stars have achieved it. Several other famous celebrities have received this prestigious award. Some of them are Helen, Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Paresh Rawal, and Akshay Kumar. This year, Adnan Sami and Ekta Kapoor too were granted the award. Is your favorite Bollywood celeb on this list? Who is your favorite from our list? Comment below and let us know.
