From legendary singers and actresses to world champion athletes and inspiring social reformers, Indian women have created history across every field and the Padma Shri has honoured many of these extraordinary achievers over the decades. Since the prestigious civilian award was introduced in 1954, several women have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the nation in sports, cinema, music, literature, science, public service, and social work.
From icons like Lata Mangeshkar, Mother Teresa, and Waheeda Rehman to modern-day achievers like PV Sindhu, Mary Kom, Mithali Raj, and Harmanpreet Kaur, these women have not only made India proud globally but also inspired generations with their courage, talent, and dedication. Their journeys reflect the changing face of India, where women continue to break barriers and achieve greatness in every sphere of life.
Here’s a look at some of the most celebrated women Padma Shri and Padma Award recipients from the past to 2026.
Legendary Women From Music
Lata Mangeshkar — One of India’s greatest singers. She first received Padma Bhushan and later Bharat Ratna for her unmatched contribution to music.
Asha Bhosle — Honoured for her iconic career in Indian playback singing across generations.
Alka Yagnik — Received Padma Bhushan in 2026 after decades of blockbuster Bollywood songs. (Aspirant Academy)
N Rajam — Honoured with Padma Vibhushan in 2026 for her contribution to Indian classical music. (Padma Awards)
Bollywood And Entertainment Icons
Waheeda Rehman — Legendary actress honoured for contribution to Indian cinema.
Shabana Azmi — Recognised for films and social activism.
Hema Malini — Honoured for Indian cinema and public service.
Vidya Balan — Awarded for powerful women-led performances in Bollywood.
Kangana Ranaut — Received Padma Shri for contribution to cinema.
Women Cricketers And Sports Legends
Harmanpreet Kaur — Received Padma Shri in 2026 after leading India women’s cricket team to historic success.
Mithali Raj — Honoured for becoming one of the greatest women cricketers in history.
Mary Kom — Multiple-time world boxing champion and Olympic medallist.
PV Sindhu — Olympic medallist and badminton superstar.
Saina Nehwal — One of the first Indian women to dominate world badminton.
Deepa Malik — India’s first woman Paralympic medallist.
Savita Punia — Honoured in 2026 for contribution to Indian women’s hockey.
Women In Literature And Education
Arundhati Roy — Internationally acclaimed writer recognised for literature.
Sudha Murty — Honoured for literature and social work.
Mahasweta Devi — Famous for tribal rights activism and literature.
Women In Politics And Public Service
Indira Gandhi — One of India’s most powerful women leaders who received Bharat Ratna.
Kiran Bedi — India’s first woman IPS officer honoured for public service.
Nirmala Sitharaman — Recognised for contributions in governance and public affairs.
Women In Science And Social Work
Tessy Thomas — Known as the “Missile Woman of India.”
Mother Teresa — Honoured for extraordinary humanitarian service in India.
Ela Bhatt — Recognised for empowering women workers through SEWA.
The Government of India announced that 19 women were among the Padma Awards recipients in 2026 across Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri categories.
Over the decades, these women have inspired millions by breaking barriers in fields once dominated by men and becoming symbols of achievement, courage, and national pride.
