On January 25, 2026, veteran Malayalam actor Mammootty was conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor, as part of the Padma Awards 2026. This recognition coincided with him receiving his ninth Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for his role in "Bramayugam" (2024). The Ministry of Home Affairs officially announced the award, recognizing Mammootty's contributions to Indian cinema over five decades.
Mammootty, after receiving the two prestigious accolades, expressed his gratitude by stating, "There is nothing bigger than the honour from the country". He also extended Republic Day wishes to everyone.
Mammootty's career spans over 400 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and English languages. He made his screen debut in 1971 and got his first credited role in 1980. He is known for his versatility and has received both critical acclaim and popular adoration for his performances in intense dramas and socially conscious narratives. He has won three National Film Awards and eleven Kerala State Film Awards. In 1998, he was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan congratulated Mammootty on receiving the Padma Bhushan. He mentioned that the state government had been recommending Mammootty for the award for several years. He stated that it was a moment of gratification that the honor was finally conferred upon him. Mohanlal also congratulated Mammootty, reflecting on their bond on and off-screen, having shared screen space in over 50 films.
The Padma Bhushan is awarded for "distinguished service of high order". The award recognizes Mammootty's prolific cinematic journey and his significant impact on Indian cinema. The announcement of the Padma Bhushan coincided with his recent Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for 'Bramayugam'.
Mammootty has also won fourteen Filmfare Awards, eleven Kerala Film Critics Awards, and five Asianet Film Awards. CNN has named him one of "the men who changed the face of the Indian Cinema".
