Three from Karnataka among Padma Shri 2026 awardees; unsung heroes honoured

Bengaluru ;The Center has announced the Padma Shri Awards for 2026, recognizing 54 individuals from across the country for their exceptional contributions in various fields. Among them are three eminent personalities from Karnataka—Ankegowda, Dr Suresh Hanagavadi and Dr S G Sushilamma—whose lifelong dedication to social service, healthcare and knowledge preservation has earned national recognition.

This year’s list once again stands out for honoring grassroots contributors and unsung heroes who have worked quietly and consistently for decades.

Dr Suresh Hanagavadi, a senior professor at JJM Medical College, Davanagere, has been honored for his pioneering work with haemophilia patients. Himself a haemophilia survivor, Dr Hanagavadi founded the Karnataka Haemophilia Society and has spent over four decades treating and supporting children suffering from the rare blood disorder. His efforts have benefited patients across the state, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds. With support from late playback singer S P Balasubrahmanyam, he helped strengthen the organization, ensuring access to treatment, awareness and emotional support for affected families.

Another awardee, Dr S G Sushilamma, has devoted her life to social reform since 1975. Founder of Sumangali Seva Ashrama, she has worked extensively for women and children through education, spiritual training, self-employment initiatives and rehabilitation programmes. Her work also includes campaigns against alcoholism, female foeticide and social discrimination. She founded a children’s collective in 1987 and has received two honorary doctorates for her contribution. Her work in environmental conservation has also earned her international recognition, including an award from Japan.

Completing the Karnataka trio is Ankegowda, a resident of Chinakurali village in Mandya district, whose passion for books has transformed into a cultural movement. Starting at the age of 20, he built a personal collection of over 20 lakh books across multiple languages. He sold his own house to establish the unique ‘Book House’ library on 22 guntas of land at Haralahalli near Pandavapura. The library offers free access to students, researchers and the public and has earned a place in the Limca Book of Records.

The recognition of these three achievers highlights Karnataka’s rich tradition of service, compassion and intellectual commitment.

________________________________________