On January 28, 2026, veteran Malayalam actor Mammootty was felicitated on the set of his upcoming movie "Padayaatra" following the announcement of him being awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor. The film's team celebrated the momentous occasion with veteran director Adoor Gopalakrishnan honoring Mammootty.

Adoor Gopalakrishnan presented Mammootty with a bouquet and a shawl to celebrate the Padma Bhushan win. The crew also held a cake-cutting ceremony. Actors Grace Antony and Indrans, who play key roles in "Padayaatra," also participated in the celebration.

The Padma Bhushan is awarded for "distinguished service of high order". Mammootty's career, which spans over five decades and includes more than 400 films in Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and other Indian languages, makes him a deserving recipient. He is known for his versatility and has received critical acclaim and popular adoration for his performances in intense dramas and socially conscious films.

This marks Mammootty's second Padma Award; he received the Padma Shri in 1998. In response to the Padma Bhushan announcement, Mammootty expressed his gratitude to the nation, the people, and the government for honoring him with the civilian award.

Mammootty, born Muhammad Kutty Panaparambil Ismail, debuted in a minor role in 1971 in "Anubhavangal Paalichakal". He has since become one of India's most celebrated actors, with a global fan base. He is a three-time National Film Award winner for Best Actor and has received several Kerala State Film Awards. In November 2025, he won his seventh Best Actor award at the Kerala State Film Awards.

Mammootty will next be seen in Mahesh Narayanan's "Patriot," which also stars Mohanlal. He was recently seen in "Kalamkaval," alongside Vinayakan, and made a cameo appearance in "Chatha Pacha". He is reuniting with Adoor Gopalakrishnan for "Padayaatra" after three decades.

The Padma Awards 2026 were announced on the eve of Republic Day and included 131 individuals. Singer Alka Yagnik and adman Piyush Pandey also received the Padma Bhushan. Dharmendra Singh Deol was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor. In 2025, Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest film award.