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In a remarkable ceremony held on the eve of Republic Day, several distinguished individuals across various fields were conferred prestigious Padma awards by the President of India. The honorees include a mix of luminaries from politics, entertainment, sports, music, and social work, whose outstanding contributions have left a significant mark on the nation.
Padma Vibhushan for Exceptional Service
Among the highest honors, the Padma Vibhushan was awarded to seven prominent individuals. Osamu Suzuki, the former CEO of Suzuki Motors, was honored for his leadership in transforming Suzuki into a global powerhouse, particularly in India. Former Chief Justice of India, JS Khehar, and celebrated Malayalam literary figure, MT Vasudevan Nair, were also among the recipients. Additionally, renowned singer Sharda Sinha and other significant personalities were recognized with the Padma Vibhushan for their exceptional and distinguished services.
Padma Bhushan Awardees Recognized
The Padma Bhushan, awarded for distinguished service of high order, went to 19 recipients, including former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi and noted ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas. Other honorees include legendary filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, the Indian-American engineer Vinod Dham, and prominent malaria researcher Chetan Chitnis. The award also recognized the contributions of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Manohar Joshi, and hockey player PR Sreejesh, among others.
Padma Shri Recognizes Diverse Talents
The Padma Shri awards were conferred upon 113 individuals for their significant contributions to various fields. Among them were celebrated playback singer Arijit Singh, music composer Ricky Kej, and Harvinder Singh, a gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Other recipients include cricket legend R. Ashwin, former SBI Chairperson Arundhati Bhattacharya, and industrialist Pawan Goenka.
The Padma Shri also recognized the efforts of unsung heroes such as 100-year-old Libia Lobo Sardesai, who played a crucial role in Goa’s freedom movement, and Marathi author and wildlife researcher Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli. Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara, a 96-year-old master puppeteer, was honored for her contribution to the art of Togalu Gombeyaata, while several other community leaders and tribal musicians were also recognized for their exemplary work.
Prime Minister and Union Home Minister’s Praise for Awardees
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his congratulations to all the Padma awardees, calling them “synonymous with hard work, passion, and innovation.” He lauded their contributions to society and urged the nation to draw inspiration from their dedication and perseverance. Home Minister Amit Shah also praised the awardees, highlighting how the Padma awards have been reimagined under PM Modi’s leadership as a platform to recognize those who have empowered communities and contributed to nation-building.
The Padma Awards 2024 celebrate the achievements of individuals who have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields, further strengthening India’s cultural, social, and professional fabric.
Sources By Agencies