On the occasion of Republic Day 2025, the Government of India announced the prestigious Padma Awards, honoring individuals for their exceptional contributions across various fields. This year, seven eminent personalities have been conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, the nation’s second-highest civilian award, while nineteen distinguished individuals have been honored with the Padma Bhushan.
Padma Vibhushan Awardees
- Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy – Medicine (Gastroenterology)Dr. Reddy is a renowned gastroenterologist and the Chairman of the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology in Hyderabad. He has been recognized for his pioneering work in the field of gastroenterology.
- Justice Jagdish Singh Khehar – Public Affairs (Judiciary)Justice Khehar served as the 44th Chief Justice of India and is acknowledged for his significant contributions to the Indian judiciary.
- Kumudini Lakhia – Art (Dance)A celebrated Kathak dancer and choreographer, Lakhia has been instrumental in innovating and popularizing the classical dance form both nationally and internationally.
- Dr. L. Subramaniam – Art (Music)An acclaimed violinist and composer, Dr. Subramaniam is known for his virtuosity in Carnatic classical music and his collaborations across various musical genres.
- M. T. Vasudevan Nair (Posthumous) – Literature and EducationA distinguished writer and filmmaker, Nair made significant contributions to Malayalam literature and cinema.
- Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous) – Trade and IndustryThe former Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Suzuki played a pivotal role in strengthening Indo-Japanese industrial relations.
- Sharda Sinha (Posthumous) – Art (Music)A celebrated folk singer from Bihar, Sinha was renowned for her contributions to Bhojpuri and Maithili music.
Padma Bhushan Awardees
- Dr. Anil Kakodkar – Science and EngineeringA prominent nuclear scientist, Dr. Kakodkar has been recognized for his contributions to India’s nuclear energy program.
- P. V. Sindhu – Sports (Badminton)An Olympic medalist and world champion, Sindhu has brought laurels to the nation with her achievements in badminton.
- Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty – Medicine (Cardiology)A renowned cardiac surgeon, Dr. Shetty is the founder of Narayana Health and has made significant contributions to affordable healthcare.
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali – Art (Cinema)A celebrated filmmaker, Bhansali is known for his grand cinematic vision and contribution to Indian cinema.
- Dr. Tessy Thomas – Science and EngineeringKnown as the ‘Missile Woman of India,’ Dr. Thomas has been recognized for her work in the field of missile technology.
- Neeraj Chopra – Sports (Athletics)An Olympic gold medalist in javelin throw, Chopra has made history with his achievements in athletics.
- Dr. V. Shanta (Posthumous) – Medicine (Oncology)A pioneer in cancer care, Dr. Shanta was instrumental in the development of the Cancer Institute (WIA) in Chennai.
- Amitabh Kant – Public AffairsAs a former CEO of NITI Aayog, Kant has been recognized for his contributions to public policy and governance.
- Dr. Sudha Murty – Social WorkAn author and philanthropist, Dr. Murty has made significant contributions to education and rural development.
- Rajinikanth – Art (Cinema)A legendary actor, Rajinikanth has been honored for his immense contribution to Indian cinema.
- Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar – Science and EngineeringA renowned chemical engineer, Dr. Mashelkar has been recognized for his contributions to scientific research and innovation.
- Mary Kom – Sports (Boxing)A six-time world champion boxer, Mary Kom has been honored for her achievements in sports.
- Dr. K. Sivan – Science and EngineeringAs the former Chairman of ISRO, Dr. Sivan has been recognized for his contributions to space research.
- Anil Agarwal – Trade and IndustryThe founder of Vedanta Resources, Agarwal has been acknowledged for his contributions to industry.
- Dr. Manjul Bhargava – Literature and EducationA renowned mathematician, Dr. Bhargava has been recognized for his contributions to mathematics.
- Kangana Ranaut – Art (Cinema)An acclaimed actress, Ranaut has been honored for her contributions to Indian cinema.
- Dr. Randeep Guleria – Medicine (Pulmonology)The former Director of AIIMS, Dr. Guleria has been recognized for his contributions to medical research and healthcare.
- S. P. Balasubrahmanyam (Posthumous) – Art (Music)A legendary playback singer, Balasubrahmanyam has been honored for his immense contribution to Indian music.
- Dr. Gagandeep Kang – Science and EngineeringA noted microbiologist, Dr. Kang has been recognized for her contributions to medical science.
The Padma Awards continue to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society, reflecting the diverse talents and dedication present across the nation.
