New Delhi [India]: It was a moment of pride for actor Ajith Kumar as he was conferred with the Padma Bhushan award on Monday evening.
In a prestigious ceremony held at the Ganatantra Mandap of Rashtrapati Bhawan, President Droupadi Murmu presented the ‘Mankatha’ star with the Padma Bhushan, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Ajith’s family members were also present, sharing the joyous moment as he walked up to receive the honour.
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For the occasion, Ajith chose a classic black suit paired with a white shirt, exuding elegance and pride.
Shortly after the ceremony, Ajith’s manager, Suresh Chandra, congratulated him through a post on X, writing, “With immense pride, the entire team at Venus Motorcycle Tours, Aspire World Tours, and Ajith Kumar Racing congratulates our CEO, Mr. Ajith Kumar, on receiving the prestigious Padma Award. We are excited to celebrate this moment with you and wish you many more milestones ahead. #AjithKumar #PadmaAwards2025 #AjithKumarPadmaAward #PrideOfIndia #PadmaAward #ProudMoment #PadmaBhushanAjithKumar #TNPrideAjithKumar.”
The announcement of Ajith receiving the Padma award had been made earlier in January. Reflecting on the honour, Ajith shared a heartfelt statement:
“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive the esteemed Padma Award by the President of India. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu and the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi for this prestigious honour. It is a privilege to be recognized at such a level and I am truly grateful for this generous acknowledgment of my contributions to our nation.”
He also paid tribute to his late father, saying, “I wish my late father had lived to see this day. Yet, I like to think he would be proud that his spirit and legacy live on in all that I do. I want to thank my mother for her unconditional love and the sacrifices that enabled me to become all that I could be.”
Acknowledging the tremendous support he has received over the years, Ajith added:
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to the members of the film industry, including my distinguished seniors, various peers, and untold others. Your inspiration, collaboration, and support have been instrumental in my journey, including the pursuit of my passion in other areas as well. I am also grateful for the kind support, over the years, of the motor racing fraternity and the sports pistol and rifle shooting community. I thank the Madras Motor Sports Club (MMSC), the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), the National Rifle Association of India, and the Chennai Rifle Club for their encouragement of sports and the community of sportspersons.”
He also shared a special mention for his family:
“To Shalini, my wife and companion of nearly 25 wonderful years: Your partnership has been a joy and cornerstone of my success. And to my children, Anoushka and Aadvik: You are my pride and the light of my life, motivating me to set an example for how to do well and live right. Lastly, to all my fans, supporters, and well-wishers: Your unwavering love and support have fueled my passion and dedication. This award is as much yours as it is mine. Thank you all for this incredible honour and for being part of this journey. I am committed to continuing to serve with integrity and passion and wish you all just as well on your own journeys.”
Ajith Kumar, who debuted in 1993 with Amaravathi, has captivated audiences for over three decades with blockbusters like Vaalee, Mugavari, Mankatha, and Yennai Arindhaalankatha, securing his place as one of Tamil cinema’s most beloved stars.