Padma Awards 2023: A Celebration of Excellence and Service

The prestigious Padma awards were conferred upon 132 eminent individuals, including former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, actors Vyjayantimala Bali and Konidela Chiranjeevi, and social worker Bindeshwar Pathak, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to various fields.

On the eve of India's 75th Republic Day, the nation celebrated the achievements of 132 eminent individuals by conferring them with the prestigious Padma awards. Among the distinguished recipients were former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, renowned actors Vyjayantimala Bali and Konidela Chiranjeevi, the late founder of Sulabh International Bindeshwar Pathak, the first woman judge of the Supreme Court, the late M Fathima Beevi, and the owner of Bombay Samachar, Hormusji N Cama.

Recognizing Unsung Heroes

The Padma awards also honored 34 unsung heroes, individuals who have made significant contributions to society without seeking recognition. Among them were India's first woman elephant mahout, Parbati Baruah, affectionately known as Hasti Kanya, tribal environmentalist Chami Murmu, social worker Sangthankima who operates Mizoram's largest orphanage, and plastic surgeon Prema Dhanraj.

Padma Vibhushan: The Highest Honor

Five eminent individuals were bestowed with the Padma Vibhushan, the country's second-highest civilian award. This prestigious honor was presented to M Venkaiah Naidu, Vyjayantimala Bali, Konidela Chiranjeevi, Bindeshwar Pathak, and renowned Bharat Natyam dancer Padma Subrahmanyam.

Padma Bhushan: Distinguished Service

Seventeen prominent personalities were recognized with the Padma Bhushan for their distinguished service of a high order. Among the recipients were M Fathima Beevi, Hormusji N Cama, Mithun Chakraborty, Young Liu, the late Vijaykanth, Usha Uthup, Ram Naik, Kundan Vyas, Dattatray Ambadas Mayaloo, CP Thakur, and Olanchery Rajagopal.

Padma Shri: Celebrating Excellence

A total of 110 individuals were honored with the Padma Shri for their distinguished service in various fields. This prestigious award was presented to tennis player Rohan Bopanna, philanthropist Kiran Nadar, hockey player Harbinder Singh, professional squash player Joshna Chinappa, Sasindran Muthuvel, the first person of Indian origin elected to the Parliament of Papua New Guinea, and banker Kalpana Morparia. Additionally, Rabindra Sangeet exponent from Bangladesh Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, 100-year-old French Yoga Teacher Charlotte Chopin, and singer Surendra Mohan Mishra were also recognized with the Padma Shri.

Appreciation from the Prime Minister and Home Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to congratulate the recipients of the Padma Awards, acknowledging their contributions across diverse sectors and expressing his hope that they would continue to inspire others with their exceptional work. Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his warmest congratulations to the change-makers who were selected for their distinguished contributions to different fields, emphasizing that they have not only set brilliant examples but also elevated the pride of the nation with their service.

The Padma Awards, announced annually on the occasion of Republic Day, serve as a testament to the remarkable achievements of individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a positive impact on society. Their contributions span a wide range of fields, from art and culture to social work and public service, and their recognition inspires others to strive for excellence and make a meaningful difference in the world.