Yogi Adityanath Congratulates Padma Awardees for Their Contributions to India's Culture and Society

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath congratulated the Padma awardees for 2026, recognising their significant contributions to India's intellectual and cultural landscape. The awards include five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri recipients.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his congratulations to all the recipients of the Padma awards. He noted that their contributions have bolstered India's intellectual, cultural, and social pillars. The government announced 131 Padma awards for 2026, which include five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards.

In a Hindi post on X, Adityanath expressed, "Heartiest congratulations to all the Padma awardees whose distinguished service has strengthened India's intellectual, cultural and social foundations." He highlighted the pride Uttar Pradesh feels for its awardees.

Recognition for Uttar Pradesh's Talent

The state is particularly proud of Padma Vibhushan recipient N. Rajam Ji in Art and several Padma Shri awardees. These include Anil Kumar Rastogi in Art, Ashok Kumar Singh in Science & Engineering, Buddha Rashmi Mani in Archaeology, Chiranji Lal Yadav in Art, Kewal Krishan Thakral in Medicine, Mangala Kapoor in Literature & Education, Praveen Kumar in Sports, Raghupat Singh (posthumously) in Agriculture, Rajendra Prasad and Shyam Sundar in Medicine.

The Chief Minister remarked that their dedication across various fields like art, science, medicine, literature, agriculture, and sports showcases the enduring values and vast potential of both the state and the nation.

Expressions of Joy from Awardees

Several awardees from Uttar Pradesh shared their joy upon receiving the honour. Mangala Kapoor expressed her gratitude for being named a Padma Shri recipient. She said, "The award means a lot to me. At this point of time, I cannot simply express my feelings in words."

Chiranji Lal Yadav from Moradabad is known for his brass engraving work since 1970. He expressed his happiness over receiving recognition for his lifelong dedication to this art form.

Anil Rastogi, a scientist at the Central Drug Research Institute from Lucknow, also received a Padma Shri. He shared his excitement: "Though I am a scientist, I got recognition as an amateur artist, and this is a proud moment for me. For this, I would like to thank all my co-actors and directors, as well as the CDRI, which allowed me to hone my interests in theatre."

Personal Reflections on Achievements

Rajendra Prasad from Lucknow expressed surprise upon hearing about his award. He stated, "I was left surprised as the news poured in. It feels great. I think if you continue to work hard in life, you will get everything." Prasad also remembered his father fondly during this momentous occasion.

He attributed his success to his father's inspiration: "My father, who was a businessman, inspired me to become a doctor," he said.

The recognition of these individuals highlights their significant contributions across various domains. Their achievements reflect not only personal dedication but also bring pride to their communities and the nation as a whole.

With inputs from PTI