In a world where excellence is revered and celebrated, the Padma Awards stand as a testament to the exceptional achievements and contributions of individuals from diverse walks of life. The year 2024 witnessed a grand spectacle of talent and dedication as the Padma Awards honoured those who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also left an indelible mark on the fabric of our society. Join us on a journey as we delve deeper into the lives and accomplishments of the illustrious Padma Awardees of 2024.
Padma Vibhushan
The Padma Vibhushan category is reserved for those who have achieved the pinnacle of excellence in their respective fields. In the realm of Arts, we witnessed the recognition of veteran Indian actress and dancer, Vyjayantimala Bali, whose grace and artistry have enthralled generations. Joining her is the versatile Konidela Chiranjeevi, an Indian actor, film producer, and former politician, whose contributions to the entertainment industry are immeasurable. The list doesn't end there; it extends to Padma Subrahmanyam, an iconic classical Bharata Natyam dancer who has preserved and propagated this beautiful art form.
In the realm of Public Affairs, M Venkaiah Naidu, the 13th Vice President of India, was honoured for his significant contributions to the nation's governance and policies. His wisdom and leadership continue to inspire.
The category of Social Work witnessed a posthumous recognition of Bindeshwar Pathak, an Indian sociologist and social entrepreneur. His groundbreaking work in sanitation and social reform has left an enduring legacy that continues to transform lives.
Padma Bhushan
The Padma Bhushan category is a testament to the diversity of talent in our nation. In the domain of Art, Shri Mithun Chakraborty, an Indian actor, producer, and politician, was recognized for his stellar performances that have entertained audiences for decades. Shri Dattatray Ambadas Mayaloo, alias Rajdutt, a veteran actor and director, also received this prestigious honour, reflecting his immense contribution to the world of cinema. Shri Pyarelal Sharma, a renowned composer and actor, added further glory to this category.
Public Affairs saw the posthumous recognition of Ms M Fathima Beevi, the first female judge of the Supreme Court of India, whose pioneering spirit blazed a trail for gender equality in the legal profession. Shri Satyabrata Mookherjee, a former Indian Union minister of state, was also honoured for his dedicated service to the nation.
In the realm of Literature & Education - Journalism, Shri Hormusji N Cama, the Chairman of the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC), and Shri Kundan Vyas, the Chief Editor of Janmabhoomi newspaper, were acknowledged for their contributions to journalism and media.
Shri Sitaram Jindal, the Founder Chairman and Managing Director of Jindal Aluminium Limited, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to Trade & Industry.
In the field of Medicine, Shri Ashwin Balachand Mehta, an Indian cardiologist and pioneer of interventional cardiology in India, and Shri Chandreshwar Prasad Thakur, a former member of the Rajya Sabha, received the Padma Bhushan for their exceptional work in healthcare and governance.
The category of Spiritualism saw the posthumous recognition of Shri Togdan Rinpoche, the leader of the Drikung Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, whose teachings have touched countless lives.
Padma Shri
The Padma Shri category serves as a prestigious platform for the recognition of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional and outstanding accomplishments across an array of fields.
In the current year, a total of 46 remarkable individuals were bestowed with the Padma Shri Award in the field of art, while 10 outstanding individuals were honoured in the social work category. Additionally, 7 notable individuals received this esteemed award in the realm of sports, followed by 7 more in the science and engineering category. The medical category witnessed the accolade being conferred upon 10 deserving individuals, while 17 luminaries were celebrated for their contributions to literature and education.
Furthermore, 2 outstanding individuals were recognized in the yoga category, and an additional 10 exemplary individuals received the award in the 'other' category.
These honorees, encompassing a spectrum of achievements from Shri Khalil Ahmad's masterful creation of handcrafted durries to the captivating rendition of Kabir by Shri Kaluram Bamaniya, epitomise the rich and diverse tapestry of India's cultural heritage.