Padma Shri Award: From art to science… these celebrities of Tamil Nadu are honored, know their contributions
Uma Shankar January 25, 2026 11:24 PM
Padma awards have been announced on the eve of Republic Day. This year 113 people will be honored with the Padmashree Award. The names have been announced. Among these, 13 people are also from Tamil Nadu, out of which 2 will get Padma Bhushan and 11 will get Padma Shri award. Padma Award is considered the highest civilian award of the country. Those who make outstanding contributions in various fields like art, social service, industry, science, medicine, sports etc. receive this award.
These prominent personalities of Tamil Nadu have been selected for the Padma Shri awards for the year 2026:-
Dr. Punniamurthy Nadesan: Dr. Nadesan, who has 40 years of experience in the field of veterinary medicine, has made new discoveries by combining modern science and traditional 'Siddha medicine'. He has discovered successful treatment for more than 40 diseases of animals through Siddha medicine.
Thiruthani Swaminathan: Swaminathan, the famous 'Odhuvar' (religious singer) of Tamil Nadu has been rendering spiritual service through Shaiva devotional music like 'Thirumurai' and 'Thevaram' for the last 60 years. He has popularized Tamil devotional music in India and abroad.
R. Krishnan (posthumous): He is a famous painter of Kurumba style. He has devoted his entire life to saving this ancient art. They use only natural colors for painting and have brought before the people the art works made on old rocks.
Rajasthapati Kaliyappa Gounder: Gounder, a resident of Salem, has been making bronze sculptures for the last 50 years. The sculptures made by him are enhancing the beauty of many big temples and museums.
Thiruvarur Bhaktavatchalam: He is a famous Mridangam player. He has made a big record by playing Mridangam with 1008 people simultaneously. He has brought glory to India in more than 10 countries.
These awards are announced every year on Republic Day. These honors are given in a special ceremony organized at Rashtrapati Bhavan. It is a matter of great pride for the country's artists, scientists and social workers.
