Akshay, Aishwarya awarded the Padma Shree

It is a proud day for Bollywood. The 60th year of the Indian republic saw top civilian honours awarded to two immensely popular actors.

Akshay Kumar and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan were awarded the Padma Shree by the Government of India.

Since Aishwarya has become the face of India for the world, and has bagged numerous best actress awards, it was a matter of time before she received this high honour.

The surprise however, remains Akshay Kumar, who has only just emerged as an actor and was given the popular choice best actor award a few days ago, which he refused. As Akshay insists on mindless entertainment in his films and refuses point blank to 'meaningful' cinema, this indeed is a strange choice.

Akshay's latest film, Chandni Chowk to China has bombed badly at the Box Office despite a collaboration with Warner Brothers. As of now, he is looking forward to the release of Kambakkht Ishq where he will share the screen not only with Bollywood beauty Kareena Kapoor, but also Hollywood stars like Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Superman Routh and Denise Richards.

Aishwarya on the other hand, is looking forward to the India release of her first Hollywood project Pink Panther 2. As of now, she is busy shooting for Mani Ratnam's Raavana alongside hubby Abhishek Bachchan. She received the popular choice best actress award at the Screen Awards held in Mumbai recently, for her role in Jodhaa Akbar.

The other Bollywood recipient of the prestigious Padma Shree is none other than the legendary Helen. The lady who immortalised the twist in Bollywood and became well-known as the essential item girl has got this award after she has retired from the industry, save a film or two every few years.