Bollywood hottie Kajol, and multitalented actors Tabu and Irrfan Khan were overwhelmed by the Padma Shri honor bestowed on them on the eve of Republic Day..

Daughter of veteran actress Tanuja and late Bengali film producer Shomu Mukherjee, Kajol entered the Hindia film industry with Bekhudi in the year 1992 at 17.

However, Kajol relished commercial success with her second flick Baazigar and later there was no looking back for her.

The 35-year-old has given huge hits including Karan Arjun, DDLJ, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, K3G and most recently My Name Is Khan.

Kajol is married to actor Ajay Devgan and they have two kids.

Kajol said, "It's an honour and a pleasure when you are selected for the Padma Shri and I thank all those who thought me worthy of it."

Tabu, one of the most talented actresses in Bollywood, entered the film industry with commercial flick Vijaypath, but it was innovative flicks like Maachis and Chandni Bar that brought her huge success and honors.

An elated Tabu said, "I feel honoured and proud. This is recognition ofhard work."

Irrfan Khan has also been honored with Padma Shri. With his avant-garde and powerpacked performances in Salaam Bombay, Maqbool, Life... In A Metro and The Namesake, the actor has carved a niche for himself in the film industry.

Other veteran actors including Shashi Kapoor and Waheeda Rehman have also been honoured with Padma Bhushan.

Ace music composer Khayyam will also be honoured with Padma Bhushan today.

"Recognition in form of awards is very good. I thankthe government and the jury which suggested my name for thehonour," Khayyam said.