26 May,2026 03:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Arvind Vaidya receives Padma Shri (Picture via X)
Veteran actor Arvind Vaidya, widely loved for playing Bapuji in the popular television show Anupamaa, has been honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri in 2026 for his immense contribution to the performing arts. The recognition celebrates his decades-long journey in Indian theatre, television and cinema, where he built a reputation as one of Gujarati entertainment's most respected figures.
Known for his calm screen presence and emotionally layered performances, Vaidya has remained a familiar face across generations. While younger audiences know him best as the affectionate and principled Bapuji from Anupamaa, the actor's contribution to Gujarati theatre and films spans several decades. His body of work includes numerous stage productions and television serials that helped shape regional entertainment.
Daughter Vandana Pathak also shared the picture and wrote, 'Proud moment for all of us'.
The actor's Padma Shri honour sparked celebrations among fans and colleagues from the television industry. Several actors and members associated with Anupamaa congratulated him for the achievement, calling it a proud moment for the entertainment fraternity. Social media was flooded with appreciation posts, with viewers praising Vaidya for bringing dignity, warmth and realism to every character he portrayed.
Photos from the ceremony showed the veteran actor dressed gracefully as he accepted the honour. Fans particularly celebrated the recognition of an artist whose contribution often remained understated despite his longstanding influence in the industry. Many users online pointed out that actors like Vaidya represent the backbone of Indian television and theatre, quietly shaping storytelling for years without constantly being in the spotlight.
Arvind Vaidya has often spoken about his deep love for acting and theatre, describing performance as a lifelong passion rather than merely a profession. Over the years, he became known for portraying fatherly and morally grounded characters that resonated strongly with family audiences. His portrayal of Bapuji in Anupamaa further strengthened that image, making him one of the show's most emotionally loved characters.
The Padma Shri honour not only recognizes his artistic achievements but also acknowledges the contribution of regional theatre artists who have played a vital role in preserving Indian storytelling traditions. Fans across the country celebrated the announcement, calling it a well-deserved recognition for an actor who spent decades entertaining audiences with sincerity and grace.
With this honour, Arvind Vaidya joins the distinguished list of artists whose work has left a lasting impact on Indian performing arts, inspiring both audiences and aspiring actors alike.
