The announcement of this year’s Padma awardees has stirred a conversation in the music industry, with celebrated playback singer Sonu Nigam voicing his disappointment over the exclusion of several iconic artists.
In a video shared on Instagram, Sonu questioned why legendary singers such as Alka Yagnik, Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan, and Kishore Kumar have not been recognised with Padma awards. Highlighting their contributions to Indian music, he said:
“There are singers who have inspired musicians across the world. One of them, Mohammed Rafi Sahab, was honoured with a Padma Shri. But another legend, Kishore Kumar Ji, didn’t even receive a Padma Shri. And yet, posthumous awards are being given.”
He went on to express his views on the current generation of singers, adding: “Among the current generation, Alka Yagnik Ji has had such a long and extraordinary career, but she hasn’t received anything yet. Shreya Ghoshal has been showcasing her brilliance for years and deserves recognition. Sunidhi Chauhan has inspired an entire generation with her unique voice, but she too hasn’t received any awards.”
In his caption accompanying the video, Sonu wrote, “India and its pending Padma Awardees,” sparking a wider discussion among his followers and fans about the recognition of artists in the country.
Kishore Kumar, one of Bollywood’s most iconic playback singers, passed away in 1987 and remains a beloved figure in Indian music. Despite his immense contributions, he was never conferred with a Padma award during his lifetime. Similarly, Alka Yagnik, known for her exceptional body of work spanning decades, and Shreya Ghoshal, a contemporary musical powerhouse, are yet to receive such honours.
Sonu Nigam, who was himself awarded the Padma Shri in 2022 by former President Ram Nath Kovind, appears to be using his platform to highlight what he views as glaring oversights in the recognition of India’s most influential musical talents.
The singer’s remarks have resonated with many in the industry and sparked a debate about the criteria for awarding Padma honours and whether deserving artists have been overlooked.