Renowned Bollywood singer Alka Yagnik was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third highest civilian honour, by President Draupadi Murmu at a special ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23, 2026. She was presented with the prestigious award for her four decades of outstanding contribution to Indian music and for recording over 22,000 songs.
Meanwhile, Alka Yagnik expressed her feelings upon receiving the Padma Bhushan. She shared a post on social media expressing her gratitude for the honor. She also spoke about her health challenges.
Alka Yagnik wrote, “For the past two years, I have been afraid to appear in public and share most of my journey. Many of you knew that I was not well. Throughout this time, your love, prayers, messages, and support have been with me every step of the way.”
Singer Alka Yagnik wrote about the Padma Award: “Today, as I walked out to receive the Padma Bhushan, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, I was thankful with all my heart. This honor is very important. While it belongs to me, it belongs equally to every listener who embraced my voice in their lives and supported me through difficult times. I am slowly finding my way. I wanted to be here today not just for myself, but for each one of you.”
Alka Yagnik is known for her melodious voice and has sung in many Indian languages. Over the years, Alka Yagnik has sung many famous songs across genres. Her songs include memorable songs like “Choli Ke Peeche” from “Khalnayak,” “Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se” from “Dhadkan,” “Hum Tum” from “Hum Tum,” “Ghunghat Ki Aad Se” from “Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke,” and “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” from “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.”