Padma Bhushan impetus to do more good work: Kamal

The 59-year-old actor said he doesn't consider it an honour for his work, but as a driving force to continue doing good work.

"I don't consider this an honour for the work I have already done. This would be an impetus to do more good work. Perhaps only then would I deserve it. I think its sheer chance and my good fortune that I have been chosen," Haasan said in a statement.

"I hope that I live long to do more to deserve this award," he added.

He has won three National awards and 19 Filmfare awards. In 1990, he also received the Padma Shri.

Congratulating the other Padma Bhushan awardees, he said: "My heartfelt congratulations to other Padma Bhushan awardees, especially my friend Vairamuthu."

Meanwhile, actress Vidya Balan is thrilled at being selected for the Padma Shri, saying it is a matter of “great pride” for her.

Dedicating the honour to her family, an emotionally overwhelmed she said: “I’m thrilled. I’m overjoyed. I’m overwhelmed. I’m honoured. I’m humbled ...! I’m running out of words to express my feelings and gratitude.”

Vidya is known for her portrayal of strong female protagonists in films like ‘Paa’, ‘Ishqiya’, ‘No One Killed Jessica’, ‘The Dirty Picture’ and ‘Kahaani’.

“To be receiving this honour from the government of my country is a matter of great pride for me and I dedicate this award to my family who make me, me,” she went to add.