Alka Yagnik Opens Up About Health Recovery After Receiving Padma Bhushan

Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik was conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan by Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23. Following the honour, the celebrated singer shared an emotional update about her ongoing health recovery and reflected on the challenges she has faced over the past two years.

During the ceremony, the 60-year-old singer was seen being assisted to the dais to receive the award. While she appeared graceful in a beige salwar suit, her frail walk drew concern from fans about her health condition.

Taking to Instagram after the ceremony, Yagnik posted a photograph of herself receiving the award from President Murmu and revealed that she had largely stayed away from the public eye while dealing with health-related difficulties. She thanked her fans for their unwavering support throughout the challenging period.

Speaking about receiving the Padma Bhushan, Yagnik described the recognition as a deeply humbling moment. She said the honour belonged not only to her but also to the millions of listeners who embraced her music across generations and stood by her through both successes and setbacks.

The singer also shared that she is gradually recovering and finding her way back. Calling the award a symbol of resilience, hope and love, she said the moment was particularly meaningful as it marked both recognition of her artistic contributions and a personal milestone in her recovery journey.

Yagnik further expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Government of India for conferring the honour upon her.

In her message, she thanked fans for their prayers, kindness and faith over the years, adding that receiving the award felt like receiving the love of millions who have been part of her musical journey.

Born in Kolkata, Yagnik began her music career in 1979 and rose to national prominence with the iconic song Ek Do Teen from the 1988 film Tezaab. The chartbuster earned her widespread acclaim and marked the beginning of a highly successful career spanning decades.

Over the years, she has won multiple accolades, including two National Film Awards. Her first came in 1993 for Ghoongat Ki Aad Se from Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, followed by another for the title track of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

In 2024, Yagnik revealed that she had been diagnosed with a rare sensorineural hearing loss caused by a viral infection. The singer had shared that she suddenly lost her hearing after stepping off a flight, prompting her to step away from public engagements while undergoing treatment and recovery.