Alka Yagnik receives Padma Bhushan at Rashtrapati Bhavan Ceremony
Alka Yagnik was honoured with the Padma Bhushan today at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu presented the award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Indian music. The veteran playback singer, whose voice has defined several eras of Hindi cinema, made a rare public appearance as she continues to recover from sensorineural hearing loss, a condition she revealed last year. She was assisted as she approached the stage and shared a brief greeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi before receiving the honour.
Yagnik’s career spans more than four decades, during which she has recorded thousands of songs across Hindi and regional films, becoming one of the most recognisable voices in the industry. Her work has earned her numerous accolades and a lasting place in the cultural memory of Indian cinema. The Padma Bhushan marks a significant milestone, acknowledging both her artistic legacy and her influence on generations of listeners.
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The ceremony also recognised several other distinguished figures from the arts and public life, but Yagnik’s appearance drew particular attention, with many fans expressing admiration and support as images and videos from the event circulated online.

