On January 25, 2025, the President of India, in a remarkable gesture to honor the Padma Awards exceptional contributions of distinguished individuals, announced the conferral of the Padma Awards. The Padma Awards, India’s highest civilian honors, are awarded annually on Republic Day, recognizing those who have made outstanding contributions in various fields such as literature, science, arts, sports, social service, and public affairs. The year 2025 saw a diverse group of individuals being honored, including luminaries from India and abroad, spanning multiple generations and disciplines.
This year’s list of awardees is particularly notable for its diversity, with 23 women among the recipients, as well as 10 individuals from the categories of Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI. The awards also feature 13 posthumous awardees, recognizing those whose contributions continue to inspire even after their passing.
A total of 139 Padma Awards have been conferred this year, including 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards. The Padma Vibhushan, which is the second-highest civilian award, honors individuals for their exceptional and distinguished service in any field. The Padma Bhushan is the third-highest civilian award, recognizing distinguished service of a high order, while the Padma Shri is awarded for distinguished service in any field.
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Padma Vibhushan (Second Highest Civilian Award)
The Padma Awards Vibhushan, the highest of the three Padma Awards, has been conferred upon seven distinguished individuals in 2025. These awardees have left an indelible mark on their respective fields, ranging from medicine to music, and even international diplomacy.
- D. Nageshwara Reddy: A pioneering gastroenterologist, Dr. Reddy’s contribution to medical science has been instrumental in advancing the understanding and treatment of digestive diseases. His work has had a lasting impact on millions of lives across India and beyond.
- Jagdish Singh Khehar: A former Chief Justice of India, Justice Khehar’s tenure at the helm of India’s judiciary is remembered for his landmark judgments and commitment to upholding the Constitution. His contribution to the Indian legal system is unparalleled, and this recognition highlights his dedication to the rule of law.
- Kumudini Lakhia: A revered classical dancer, Kumudini Lakhia’s legacy in the world of Kathak dance is immeasurable. Through her dedication to preserving and advancing this ancient art form, she has not only shaped the future of Kathak but also brought it to the global stage, earning admiration from audiences around the world.
- L. Subramaniam: A legendary violinist, L. Subramaniam’s virtuosity has earned him recognition as one of the finest exponents of Carnatic music. His contributions to Indian classical music and his efforts to fuse traditional Indian sounds with Western music have made him a global ambassador for the art.
- M. T. Vasudevan Nair (Posthumous): One of Malayalam literature’s finest writers, M. T. Vasudevan Nair’s works have captured the complexities of human emotion and the socio-political landscape of Kerala. His narratives, often deeply philosophical, have enriched Indian literature and continue to influence writers today.
- Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous): A revered automotive engineer, Osamu Suzuki’s innovative work in the development of Suzuki Motor Corporation revolutionized the global automobile industry. His legacy continues through the countless vehicles that bear the Suzuki name, known for their reliability and efficiency.
- Sharda Sinha (Posthumous): Known as the ‘Nightingale of Bihar,’ Sharda Sinha’s contribution to the folk music of Bihar and India is unparalleled. Her soulful voice and dedication to preserving the folk traditions of Bihar have left an enduring legacy.
Padma Bhushan (Third Highest Civilian Award)
The Padma Bhushan honors individuals for distinguished service of a high order, and this year, 19 individuals were conferred the award in recognition of their excellence across various fields.
- PR Sreejesh: A former Indian hockey goalkeeper, PR Sreejesh’s contribution to the Indian national team’s success on the international stage has been immense. His leadership and consistent performance in the most challenging tournaments, including the Olympics, have made him one of India’s greatest hockey players.
- Ravichandran Ashwin: A celebrated cricketer, Ashwin’s contribution to Indian cricket is enormous. Known for his exceptional skill as a bowler, particularly in spin bowling, Ashwin has been a key player in India’s cricketing success over the past decade. His accolades include numerous Test match records and the respect of his peers.
- Hemant Kumar: A renowned nephrologist from Bihar, Dr. Hemant Kumar’s groundbreaking work in kidney transplantation and dialysis has changed the lives of countless patients. His contributions to medical science, particularly in rural healthcare, have earned him respect across the medical community.
Padma Shri (Fourth Highest Civilian Award)
The Padma Shri is conferred for distinguished service in various fields, and 113 individuals have been recognized this year. Among them, there are several noteworthy personalities who have made a significant impact in their respective domains.
- Libia Lobo Sardesai: A 100-year-old freedom fighter from Goa, Libia Lobo Sardesai’s courage and sacrifice during India’s struggle for independence are a testament to the spirit of resistance. Despite her advanced age, she remains an active voice for the rights of women and the marginalized in society.
- Suresh Harilal Soni: A social worker dedicated to the rehabilitation and welfare of leprosy patients and those with intellectual disabilities, Suresh Harilal Soni has worked tirelessly for the betterment of the underprivileged. His unwavering commitment to social justice has earned him widespread recognition.
The 2025 Padma Awards also reflect India’s growing recognition of international talent, with several foreign nationals being honored for their contributions to India’s progress. Among them is Osamu Suzuki, whose posthumous award for his groundbreaking work in the automobile industry highlights the global impact of his legacy.
A Diverse and Inclusive List of Awardees Padma Awards
What stands out about the 2025 Padma Awards is their inclusivity. For the first time in many years, women constitute a significant portion of the awardees, with 23 women receiving honors across various fields. This marks a positive trend towards gender equality and recognition for women’s contributions to society, ranging from arts and literature to social service.
The Padma Awards also reflect the diversity of India itself, with recipients representing a wide range of professions, regions, and backgrounds. The inclusion of individuals from diverse communities, including a large number of posthumous awards, underscores the long-lasting impact these figures have had on India’s cultural, social, and scientific fabric.
Conclusion
The Padma Awards 2025 have been a celebration of excellence, honor, and resilience. This year’s recipients represent the very best of what India has to offer in terms of talent, dedication, and service. Whether in the fields of science, arts, sports, or social service, these awardees have made significant contributions that have shaped the nation and inspired generations to come.
As the nation continues to honor the exceptional achievements of these individuals, the Padma Awards serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating those who strive to make the world a better place. The legacy of these individuals will continue to inspire future generations to contribute positively to society and work towards a brighter and more inclusive future for all.