Nothing greater than country honouring me, says Mammootty on Padma Bhushan

Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty, who was conferred the Padma Bhushan on Sunday, said he was “very happy” and described the honour as the highest recognition any artist could receive from the nation.

Fondly known as ‘Mammukka’ among fans and colleagues, the 74-year-old actor termed the award “unexpected” while speaking to a television channel, adding that there was “nothing greater than the country honouring one.”

Expressing gratitude, Mammootty said the recognition belonged as much to Malayalam cinema as to him personally. He thanked his fans, colleagues, and well-wishers for their continued support over the decades.

Soon after the announcement, congratulatory messages poured in from across the film fraternity and political circles. Several actors and filmmakers took to social media to hail his immense contribution to Indian cinema.

Mammootty has acted in over four decades of films, earning widespread acclaim for his versatile performances across languages, and is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema.

The Padma Bhushan is India’s third-highest civilian award, given in recognition of distinguished service of a high order in various fields.