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New Delhi. Social entrepreneur Arunachalam Muruganantham, who has brought a big change in the health and hygiene of women in India, is once again in the headlines. Muruganantham, popularly known as ‘Pad Man’, has claimed that he has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for the year 2026.

His journey from a small village in Tamil Nadu to global recognition is considered inspiring. The story based on his life was shown on the big screen through the film Padman, in which Akshay Kumar played his character.

What did Muruganantham say about the nomination?

Expressing happiness over this achievement, Muruganantham said that initially he did not believe it. He said that no person can send his own name for the Nobel Prize, rather it is nominated by a third party. According to him, a dean of Aravind Eye Hospital in Puducherry and the American teams working there sent his name, which was accepted within 24 hours.

Race for Nobel Peace Prize 2026

According to official data, a total of 287 nominations have been received from around the world for the Nobel Peace Prize for the year 2026. These include 208 individuals and 79 organizations. In such a situation, Muruganantham’s inclusion in this list shows the global impact of his work. However, the final selection process is quite complex and competitive.

How is the selection done?

The Nobel Committee seeks expert opinion after nomination and the candidates’ work is thoroughly evaluated. In this, research papers, articles and other documents are examined in detail, so that the award can be given to the right person or organization.

Who is Arunachalam Muruganantham?

Arunachalam Muruganantham is a social activist from Tamil Nadu who dedicated his life to providing affordable and safe sanitary pads to women in rural India. She developed a low-cost machine that made it easier to make pads and changed the lives of thousands of women.

The story reached every home through the film

His inspiring journey was captured by director R. Balki presented as the film Padman. In this film released in 2018, along with Akshay Kumar, Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor were also seen in important roles. The film raised awareness about sanitary pads in the society and also won a National Award. Today, the same real ‘Pad Man’ has taken another big step towards bringing glory to India on the global stage.