Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Akshay Kumar were awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India on 26th January 2009, the 60th Republic Day of India.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Akshay Kumar were awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India on 26th January 2009, the 60th Republic Day of India. Along with them, veteran actor Helen was also bestowed this third highest civilian award by the government of India.
When contacted, Ash was obviously thrilled with the honour. She says, “It is an absolute honour and privilege to accept this award bestowed upon me by my country. I accept it in all humility and truly cherish it. It is special — personally and for the whole family.”
Father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan is more vocal on his blog. He writes, “Aishwarya came in, full of bubble and laughter and (news of the) Padma Shri… How do I feel?
How would anyone feel when (their) daughter wins (an) accolade and distinction! These are Government Awards acknowledging contributions made in the various professions…I have been in there 4 times. Once to see my Father receive the Padma Bhushan, twice when I received the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan, and once to see Jaya get the Padma Shri. Now we shall be proudly entering the magnificent portals of this majestic structure to see Aishwarya receiving this decoration.”
The honour has come at an apt time for both actors as they are going through a bit of a low phase commercially. While Ash hasn’t had a release for a while, Akshay’s latest
Chandni Chowk to China didn’t live up to box-office expectations.
Says Akshay, “It is extremely wonderful and most humbling. I will cherish this as one of the most memorable moments in my life and my family’s life. I really cannot express how touched I am. I am speechless for this unexpected recognition of my work, my passion and I must say that it’s all because of the people — my audiences. I am only here today because of them.”
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