Padma Awards Celebrates Music And Musicians

India-West News Desk

MUMBAI – The Padma Awards 2025, one of India’s highest civilian honors, recognized 139 distinguished individuals for their contributions across various fields. Here’s how some of the recipients reacted to the prestigious recognition:

Pandit Ronu Majumdar (Flute Maestro) – Padma Shri
Flute maestro Pandit Ronu Majumdar expressed heartfelt gratitude, dedicating the honor to his mentors, Pandit Ravi Shankar and Pandit Vijay Raghav Rao, as well as his parents. He also acknowledged the support of his wife and children during tough times. “This honor is the result of hard work and blessings from my gurus and family. I urge the youth to avoid shortcuts and focus on sincere effort,” he said.

Ricky Kej (Grammy-Winning Musician) – Padma Shri
Globally acclaimed musician Ricky Kej described the award as a career-defining moment. “While my Grammy Awards celebrate individual works, the Padma Shri recognizes my journey as a whole, making it extra special,” he shared. Kej expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his parents for their inspiration and support.

Begum Batool (Folk Singer) – Padma Shri
Rajasthani folk singer Begum Batool expressed joy at receiving the Padma Shri, emphasizing its significance in preserving traditional music. “Despite not being widely known, I was considered for this honor, which shows the government’s respect for folk traditions,” she said. Batool, known for her renditions of Hindu bhajans and Muslim Maand, highlighted the urgent need to safeguard diminishing cultural heritage.

Jaspinder Narula (Playback Singer) – Padma Shri
Veteran playback singer Jaspinder Narula dedicated her award to her parents, whom she credited as her first gurus. Reflecting on her 50-year career, she said, “Faith, dedication, and hard work are key to success.” Narula is celebrated for her iconic contributions to Hindi and Punjabi cinema.

Sharda Sinha (Folk Singer) – Posthumous Padma Vibhushan
The late folk singer Sharda Sinha was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, marking a historic milestone for Bihar. Her son, Anshuman Sinha, expressed pride in her legacy, saying, “This is a moment of great pride for Bihar and her lifelong dedication to Bhojpuri and Maithili traditions.”

Pankaj Udhas (Ghazal Singer) – Posthumous Padma Bhushan
The family of legendary ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, honored posthumously with the Padma Bhushan, shared their emotions over the bittersweet recognition. His wife, Farida Udhas, remarked, “It’s a matter of pride for us, though we deeply miss him.” His daughters, Nayaab and Reva, also expressed gratitude for the recognition of his contributions to music.

Adnan Sami (Singer) – Padma Shri Committee Member
Singer Adnan Sami, who served on the Padma Awards Committee, expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for nominating him. “It has been a privilege to serve on the committee and witness the incredible stories of awardees from diverse fields,” he shared.