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Subhash Ghai: Audience Love is My True Padma Award, Says Veteran Filmmaker

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai stated that the true recognition for him is his audience remembering and rewatching his films, not receiving the Padma Award. He revealed he has never worked for status or reputation, but for artistic excellence and his viewers. Ghai mentioned he has received hundreds of awards over his career but does not display them to avoid ego barriers. The Padma Awards, among India's highest civilian honours, were recently announced for 2026, with 131 recipients across three categories.

Key Points: Subhash Ghai on Padma Award: Audience Remembrance is Real Honour

  • Audience love over awards
  • Worked for excellence, not status
  • 200-300 awards not displayed
  • Padma honour if deemed eligible
  • 131 Padma Awards for 2026
2 min read

Audience remembering my films is a Padma award in itself, says Subhash Ghai

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai says audience remembering his films is his Padma award. He reflects on 50-year career and his philosophy on awards and ego.

"If they can remember my films and watch them again, then I am very happy. That is the Padma award for me. - Subhash Ghai"

Mumbai, February 5

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai, whose cinematic journey spans nearly five decades, reflected on the prestigious Padma Awards - the recognition that has eluded him over the years.

Speaking to ANI, Subhash Ghai said his real happiness lies in his films entertaining audiences, not in receiving awards.

"I have never thought about receiving the Padma Award. I never worked for status or reputation, but for excellence and my audience. If they can remember my films and watch them again, then I am very happy. That is the Padma award for me," he said.

Ghai noted that the government will honour him with the Padma Award once it deems him eligible, adding that he will be ready to receive it.

"I have never been too happy or too angry over the award. If you look at my house, you won't see any awards, even though I have received 200-300 over the years. I feel such things boost your ego and put a barrier in your growth," he shared.

Earlier this month, the Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian honours of India, were announced on the eve of Republic Day. The Awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service; Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of higher order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field of activity.

For the year 2026, the President has approved conferment of 131 Padma Awards, including 2 duo cases (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one). The list comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri Awards.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While his sentiment is beautiful, it's also a bit sad that such an iconic filmmaker who shaped Bollywood for generations hasn't been recognized officially. The Padma committee should definitely consider him. His contribution to Indian cinema is immense.
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Priya S
This is the real guru mantra! Working for excellence and audience love, not for awards. So many young filmmakers today are obsessed with trophies and openings. They should learn from Subhash ji's philosophy. Wishing him good health! ❤️
R
Rohit P
Respect! But honestly, I disagree slightly. National awards are important to formally acknowledge an artist's service to the nation. His work has brought joy to millions and projected Indian culture globally. He deserves the Padma Shri at the very least.
K
Kavya N
My childhood memories are filled with his movies and those iconic songs. "Ram Lakhan," "Hero," "Saudagar" – the list goes on. For people like me, he is already a legend awarded by time itself. Padma or no Padma, he is our Showman! 🎬
M
Michael C
Interesting take on awards boosting ego. There's wisdom in that. Maybe the delay has helped him stay focused on his craft and his film school. Sometimes the recognition you don't get keeps you hungry and humble.

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