Dhanush and ‘Om’ Crew Cut Cake to Celebrate Mammootty’s Padma Bhushan

MUMBAI — The camaraderie on the sets of the highly anticipated film Om reached a new high this week as lead actor Dhanush and the production team hosted a special celebration to honor Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty. The event, held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, followed the veteran actor’s formal investiture ceremony where he was conferred the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.

The celebration, documented through social media by Wunderbar Films, featured a warm exchange between the two stars, with Dhanush presenting a bouquet to the veteran actor before they joined the crew for a ceremonial cake-cutting. The gesture marked a moment of professional respect and personal warmth between the two prominent figures of Indian cinema, who are currently collaborating on the Rajkumar Periyasamy-directed action drama, Om - Chapter 1: Udhiram: The Blood Wood.

A Milestone for Indian Cinema

The Padma Bhushan was officially conferred upon Mammootty by President Droupadi Murmu at an investiture ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on June 23, 2026. The award serves as a formal recognition of the actor’s five-decade-long career, during which he has become one of the most versatile and respected performers in the country.

Following the ceremony, the actor’s family, including his son and fellow actor Dulquer Salmaan, attended the event. The actor also had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who later shared images of the meeting on social media, acknowledging the actor’s contributions to the arts.

Artistic Synergy on the Set of ‘Om’

The atmosphere on the Om set has been one of high anticipation. Director Rajkumar Periyasamy, who is helming the project, took to social media to congratulate his lead actor, teasing fans about the significance of the veteran actor's role in the film.

"Hearty Congratulations to our very own Mammukka on being conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award for his exceptional contribution to Indian cinema for more than five decades," Periyasamy stated. He further heightened viewer expectations, adding, "Now wait for Ikka’s entry from Om. It will be worth all your wait!"

The film, which also stars Sai Pallavi and Sreeleela, is positioned as a major multi-chapter franchise. With the official title Om - Chapter 1: Udhiram: The Blood Wood recently unveiled, the project is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 16, 2026.

Why It Matters

For the film industry and fans, the celebration on the Om set represents more than just a promotional moment; it highlights the inter-generational respect within the Indian film fraternity. Mammootty’s recognition by the Government of India acts as a bridge between the classic era of cinema and contemporary, large-scale projects like Om, which are increasingly blending talent from across regional industries.

Key Facts at a Glance

• The Award: Mammootty received the Padma Bhushan from President Droupadi Murmu on June 23, 2026.

• The Film: Om - Chapter 1: Udhiram: The Blood Wood stars Dhanush, Mammootty, Sai Pallavi, and Sreeleela.

• Production: The film is directed by Rajkumar Periyasamy and produced by Wunderbar Films.

• Release Date: The movie is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on October 16, 2026.

• Career Legacy: Mammootty’s career spans over 50 years, featuring iconic roles in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema.

FAQ

When did Mammootty receive the Padma Bhushan? The formal investiture ceremony took place on June 23, 2026, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

What is the name of the film Dhanush and Mammootty are working on? They are collaborating on an action-thriller titled Om - Chapter 1: Udhiram: The Blood Wood.

When will the movie Om be released? The film is scheduled to hit theaters globally on October 16, 2026.

Who is directing the upcoming project Om? The film is directed by Rajkumar Periyasamy, known for his work on the film Amaran.

Source: Wunderbar Films Official X/Twitter, Rashtrapati Bhavan Official Releases, Indian Express Entertainment