Ilaiyaraaja to Receive Padmapani Award at Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival 2026

Renowned music maestro Ilaiyaraaja is set to receive a major cinematic honor in early 2026. The legendary composer will be conferred the Padmapani Award at the 11th Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival, recognising his timeless contribution to Indian film music. The announcement has been widely welcomed across the film and cultural fraternity.

Why in News?

Veteran composer Ilaiyaraaja has been selected for the Padmapani Award. The honour will be presented at the 11th Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival.

About the Padmapani Award

• The Padmapani Award is one of the most prestigious honours given by the Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival.
• It is awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to cinema and the arts.
• The award includes a Padmapani memento, a citation certificate, and a cash prize of ₹2 lakh, symbolising both artistic excellence and cultural impact.

Why Ilaiyaraaja Was Chosen

• Ilaiyaraaja is widely regarded as one of the greatest music composers in Indian cinema.
• With a career spanning over four decades, he has composed music for more than 1,000 films across multiple languages.
• His innovative use of Western classical techniques blended with Indian folk and classical music transformed film music and influenced generations of composers and musicians.

About the Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival

• The Ajanta-Ellora International Film Festival is a prominent cultural event celebrating world cinema and Indian artistic excellence.
• The 11th edition of the festival will be held from 28 January to 1 February 2026 at Mahatma Gandhi Mission, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
• The festival serves as a platform for filmmakers, artists and scholars to exchange ideas and showcase meaningful cinema.

Government Support and Cultural Importance

• The festival is organized with the support of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Department of Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra.
• It is co-presented by the National Film Development Corporation and the Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation.
• This backing highlights the festival’s national cultural significance.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Ilaiyaraaja will receive the Padmapani Award at which event?

A. International Film Festival of India
B. Ajanta–Ellora International Film Festival
C. Mumbai Film Festival
D. Kerala International Film Festival