K Pajanivel, 'Silambam' instructor from Puducherry, was conferred with Padma Shri 2026 for his contribution in field of Sports and traditional martial arts. Pajanivel has been recognised for reviving Silambam, an ancient weapon-based martial art from Tamil Nadu and has trained over 5,000 students in the discipline. Notably, he bowed before PM Narendra Modi before being conferred with the award.