Republic Day anticipation peaked with the government’s announcement of Padma Awards 2024, a testament to India’s vibrant talent pool. Sunday’s reveal by the Home Ministry lists 131 achievers, blending icons, innovators, and quiet contributors.
The breakdown: five supreme Padma Vibhushans, 13 notable Bhushans, 113 commendable Shris. Standouts include 19 women powerhouses, six international desis, and 16 eternal tributes via posthumous awards.
Dharmendra Singh Deol bags posthumous Padma Vibhushan, honoring his half-century reign in Bollywood. Peers: KT Thomas in public affairs (Kerala), art virtuoso N Rajam (UP), literary light P Narayanan (Kerala), and departed leader VS Achyutanandan (Kerala).
Bhushan brigade dazzles with Alka Yagnik (Maharashtra), Bhagat Singh Koshyari (Uttarakhand), Kallipatti Ramasamy Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Mammootty (Kerala), US duo Dr. Nori Dattatreudu and Vijay Amritraj, ad legend Piyush Pandey (posthumous, Maharashtra), SKM Maillanandan (Tamil Nadu), Shatavadhani R Ganesh (Karnataka), Jharkhand icon Shibu Soren (posthumous), finance titan Uday Kotak (Maharashtra), VK Malhotra (posthumous, Delhi), Vellappally Natesan (Kerala).
Symbolizing peak civilian recognition, Padma Awards span diverse domains yearly on January 25, culminating in Presidential investitures. Vibhushan for rarity, Bhushan for elite service, Shri for solid impact.
This cohort inspires, bridging regional divides and global ties, as India marches forward on its democratic milestone.