On January 26, 2020, it was announced that Kangana Ranaut, Karan Johar and Ekta Kapoor will be honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri award for their contribution in the field of performing arts. Soon after the announcement, an elated Karan Johar had shared on Twitter, “It’s not very often that I am at a loss for words, but this is one such occasion…The PadmaShri. Such an honour to receive one of the civilan awards in the country. Overwhelmed by so many emotions right now. Humbled, elated and also thankful for the opportunity to live my dream every day, to create and to entertain. I know my father would be proud and I wish he was here to share this moment with me. #blessed .”
For this special ceremony, Ekta Kapoor was accompanied by her father, veteran actor Jeetendra. Expressing happiness post the big achievement, Ekta shared in a statement, “It is an absolute honour to receive the Fourth Highest Civilian Award for my humble contribution in the field of performing arts. It is a surreal moment and a matter of great pride. I want to dedicate this badge of honour to my two pillars of strength – my mom and dad. They believed in me with their whole heart and it is because of them, I am who I am!” Ekta added further, “I am really overwhelmed with all the love and accolades that are coming my way. I want to thank my family, friends, my team at Balaji Telefilms and most importantly – the audience, for believing in me and supporting me. I hope to always push the envelope, challenge norms, give talents a platform that they truly deserve, instill pride and give back to the country that has fuelled my ambition and dreams.”
