Padma Bhushan for Former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari Announced
On the eve of Republic Day 2026, the Government of India announced that Bhagat Singh Koshyari, former Governor of Maharashtra, will be conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour. The announcement is part of a larger list of 131 Padma Awards that include five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri recipients recognised for their distinguished contributions in fields ranging from art and sports to public affairs and social service. In these honours, states and regions see reflection of diverse talents and impactful service to the nation.
Koshyari, 83, served as Governor of Maharashtra from September 2019 until February 2023, after a long career in public service which also included being the first Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and holding various roles within political and social organisations. His Padma Bhushan recognition is cited under the category of public affairs for his contributions over several decades.
Significance of the Padma Awards on Republic Day Eve
The Padma Awards are traditionally announced each year on the eve of Republic Day to acknowledge exceptional and distinguished service by Indian citizens and select overseas individuals. These honours are conferred by the President of India and represent recognition of merit across multiple disciplines. The Padma Bhushan recognises distinguished service of a high order, while the Padma Shri acknowledges distinguished service in various capacities.
The 2026 awards list reflects a broad swathe of achievers, including figures from the arts, sports, literature, science, public affairs and social sectors. Alongside Koshyari, notable Padma Bhushan awardees include acclaimed actor Mammootty, playback singer Alka Yagnik, banker Uday Kotak and tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, among others.
Former Governor Koshyari Expresses Gratitude
Responding to the honour, Bhagat Singh Koshyari expressed his gratitude, emphasising that his work has always been driven by dedication to the nation rather than personal appreciation or criticism. In comments after the announcement, he said he does not work for someone’s praise or disapproval but remains committed to serving “Bharat Mata” and the ideals he believes in, noting his long association with national organisations and public life.
Koshyari also thanked the Prime Minister and the President of India for the recognition, describing the award as inspirational for ordinary workers across the country. He said the honour would encourage continued selfless service to society.
Political Leaders Respond to the Award Decision
The conferment of the Padma Bhushan on the former governor has generated a range of reactions from political leaders and commentators, particularly in Maharashtra. Supporters of the decision have emphasised Koshyari’s long record of public service, while critics argue that his tenure as governor was marked by contentious political interventions.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut strongly criticised the award, accusing Koshyari of playing a role in toppling an elected government in Maharashtra and alleging that his actions undermined democratic norms. Raut said that bestowing such an honour on Koshyari sends the wrong message and dishonours the sentiments of many in the state.
Similarly, leaders from the Congress party in Maharashtra described the decision to honour Koshyari as an insult to the state, pointing to past statements and controversies associated with his tenure. They argued that national honours should reflect contributions that unify society rather than reignite old political disputes.
Conversely, proponents of the award in the BJP and allied circles, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, congratulated Koshyari and described his career as one of sustained contribution to governance and nation-building. They highlighted specific initiatives linked to his public service record, including work on military pension equity and diplomatic engagements.
Controversies Surrounding Koshyari’s Tenure Come Into Discussion
Critics of the Padma Bhushan decision have underscored several controversial moments from Koshyari’s time as governor, particularly his role during political transitions within Maharashtra. Detractors recall instances where his decisions were interpreted as favouring particular political outcomes, including early morning swearing-in ceremonies that altered the state’s government. These events have continued to be debated by commentators and political actors alike.
There have also been references to past remarks attributed to Koshyari which drew criticism from sections of the public, especially relating to revered historical figures. Such remarks have contributed to the ongoing debate about the appropriateness of honouring him with a civilian award.
Broader Padma Awards Context and Recipients
The 2026 Padma Awards list is one of the largest in recent years, showcasing a wide range of talent and service. Out of the 131 recipients, five individuals have been conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour, for exceptional and distinguished service. These include celebrated personalities from the arts and public life, some recognised posthumously.
Nineteen women are among the awardees, and six foreign nationals or persons of Indian origin have also been honoured, underscoring the inclusive and wide-spanning nature of the list. Sixteen of the awards were given posthumously, reflecting contributions that have left lasting legacies.
Public Discourse and National Recognition
The announcement of Padma awards on Republic Day eve traditionally generates national discussion on merit, recognition and societal values. While the honours are meant to celebrate contribution and excellence, they often become focal points for broader conversations about history, politics and public sentiment. In Koshyari’s case, the debate highlights how historical record, administrative decisions and public perception intersect in contemporary award politics.
Analysts note that such controversies, while politically charged, also bring attention to the criteria and narratives that shape national recognition. The diversity of fields represented in the awards list, from arts and sports to public affairs and social work, reflects the wide range of ways in which citizens contribute to national life and collective heritage.
Recognition Coupled With Debate
Former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari’s Padma Bhushan award on the eve of Republic Day 2026 recognises a lifetime of public service but also sparks debate over the intersections of politics, governance and national honours. With a distinguished list of 131 Padma awardees across categories that celebrate India’s plural achievements, the decision highlights both individual accomplishments and the complex conversations that surround how such honours are conferred in a diverse democratic society.
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