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While Padma awards are conferred on many individuals every year, only a handful are truly perceived by the public as unquestioningly deserving. At the same time, Indian cultural history is replete with towering figures whose lifetime contributions were never adequately recognised. One such legend is Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, now 94, whose impact on Indian cinema is nothing short of monumental.

Singeetham began his journey in the golden era of filmmaking as an associate director during the time of Mayabazar, and went on to redefine storytelling across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema. A rare creative force who seamlessly blended intellect with entertainment, he delivered films that were far ahead of their time. His most celebrated work, Pushpaka Vimanam, remains a landmark in world cinema—a modern silent film that communicated universal emotions without dialogue and earned international acclaim.

Equally pathbreaking was Aditya 369, through which Singeetham became the first Indian filmmaker to introduce the concept of a time machine on screen, inspiring generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. Despite receiving multiple state and national honours, his absence from the list of Padma awardees continues to baffle cinema lovers.

Even in 2026, the fact that Singeetham Srinivasa Rao has not been honoured with a Padma award has sparked widespread disbelief among netizens and film fraternity members. Growing voices now demand that the Government of India recognise his unparalleled legacy with the Padma Vibhushan—an honour many believe is long overdue and truly befitting his stature.