As India gears up for its 75th Republic Day, the Union Home Ministry dropped a bombshell of accolades on Sunday, announcing the 2024 Padma Awards. This prestigious roll call highlights unsung heroes and celebrities alike, totaling 131 awardees in three elite categories.
Breaking it down: five for Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushans, and 113 Padma Shris. Diversity shines through with 19 women, six overseas Indians or foreigners, and poignant posthumous nods to 16 luminaries.
Posthumous Padma Vibhushan goes to Bollywood legend Dharmendra, whose silver screen charisma captivated millions. Other Vibhushan recipients include Kerala’s KT Thomas (public affairs), N Rajam (art, UP), P Narayanan (literature & education, Kerala), and late VS Achyutanandan (public affairs, Kerala).
Padma Bhushan stars feature singer Alka Yagnik (Maharashtra), politician Bhagat Singh Koshyari (Uttarakhand), Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), actor Mammootty (Kerala), Dr. Nori Dattatreudu (USA), tennis ace Vijay Amritraj (USA), ad guru Piyush Pandey (posthumous, Maharashtra), SKM Maillanandan (Tamil Nadu), memory maestro Shatavadhani R Ganesh (Karnataka), tribal leader Shibu Soren (posthumous, Jharkhand), banker Uday Kotak (Maharashtra), sports administrator VK Malhotra (posthumous, Delhi), and social reformer Vellappally Natesan (Kerala).
Rooted in tradition since 1954, these awards span 10 fields from arts to civil services. Vibhushan for unparalleled service, Bhushan for high distinction, Shri for commendable work. Presented amid pomp at the President’s residence, they symbolize national gratitude.
This announcement not only celebrates past achievements but fuels ambition across society, reminding us that true honor lies in selfless contribution.