Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar has been awarded the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema. The actor received the award from President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday, April 28, 2025.
Ajith Kumar’s Journey to the Padma Bhushan
Ajith Kumar’s journey to receiving the Padma Bhushan has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the span of more than three decades, Ajith has built a legacy in the Tamil film industry with a career that spans over 60 films. Known for his versatility and action-packed roles, Ajith’s career trajectory has seen a mix of romance, action, and drama, making him a household name across South India.
Ajith first appeared in a minor role in the 1990 film En Veedu En Kanavar before making his debut as a lead actor in Amaravathi (1993). However, it was his transformation into an action star at the turn of the century with films like Amarkalam, Dheena, and Citizen that truly marked the beginning of his iconic status. Throughout his career, Ajith has played roles that have earned him a massive fan following, especially in Tamil Nadu.
Films such as Varalaaru, Billa, and Mankatha have solidified his reputation as one of Tamil cinema’s biggest superstars. His ability to seamlessly transition between different genres, from romance to intense action-packed films, has been key to his lasting appeal.
A Star Beyond Cinema: Ajith’s Multifaceted Talents
While Ajith is best known for his roles on the big screen, his talents extend far beyond acting. Ajith is also an accomplished motorsport racer and team owner, balancing his cinematic career with his passion for racing. He is a well-known figure in the motorsports world, having participated in several racing competitions. On top of that, Ajith has won accolades in shooting, proving his versatility in sports. His involvement in diverse fields adds to his allure as a multifaceted personality.
In addition to his success in cinema and sports, Ajith has also received recognition for his philanthropic efforts. His humble persona off-screen and his strong connection with his fans have made him not just a superstar, but also an inspiration for many.
Other Padma Awardees from Cinema
Ajith Kumar was not the only notable figure from the field of cinema to receive Padma awards this year. Actor-politician Nandamuri Balakrishna, veteran director Shekhar Kapur, iconic actors like Anant Nag, Shobana Chandrakumar, and three-time Grammy Award-winning composer Ricky Kej were also among those honored with prestigious Padma awards.
These recognitions are a testament to the immense contributions these individuals have made to the Indian film industry and culture. The Padma Awards, being one of India’s highest civilian awards, acknowledge the long-lasting impact these celebrities have had across various artistic and cultural domains.
A Humble Gratitude from Ajith
Ajith Kumar’s reaction to receiving the Padma Bhushan was one of deep gratitude and humility. In a heartfelt statement released in January, when the announcement was made, Ajith expressed his appreciation for the honour. “I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive the esteemed Padma Award from the President of India,” Ajith shared. He also took the opportunity to thank President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the recognition, acknowledging the privilege it is to be awarded such a prestigious distinction.
Ajith’s sincerity and gratitude reflect the values that have endeared him to millions of fans over the years. Despite his massive success, he remains grounded, always thankful for the opportunities that have come his way.
