On 27 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu honoured 68 distinguished individuals with the Padma Awards at the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The ceremony recognised exceptional contributions across a broad spectrum of fields including public affairs, arts, literature, social work, medicine, and sports.
The event was graced by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and several Union Ministers. Noteworthy recipients included former Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar, renowned classical dancer Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia, and the late folk singer Sharda Sinha.
Prime Minister Modi praised the awardees’ dedication, calling their life journeys “deeply motivating” and emphasising the importance of recognising both celebrated figures and grassroots changemakers.
Celebrating India’s Diverse Talents and Contributions
The Padma Awards — comprising Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri — are among the highest civilian honours in India, bestowed annually to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and achievement. This year, the second investiture ceremony of 2025 presented three Padma Vibhushan, nine Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri awards, including 13 posthumous honours.
The recipients represent a wide array of disciplines, reflecting India’s rich cultural and professional diversity. President Murmu, addressing the gathering, praised the awardees for their “unwavering commitment and selfless service,” highlighting how their work inspires citizens across the country.
The ceremony also underscored the government’s focus on inclusivity, with many awardees hailing from remote and underrepresented regions, thereby bringing attention to unsung heroes whose contributions often go unnoticed.
The Legacy and Evolution of the Padma Awards
Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards have evolved into a symbol of national gratitude and recognition for outstanding service to society. This year, a total of 139 awards were announced in two ceremonies, signalling a broadening scope that honours not only high-profile achievers but also grassroots workers, educators, and social reformers.
The awards are recommended by a specially constituted Padma Awards Committee, which rigorously evaluates nominations from across the country. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals from varied backgrounds, including those without prior public recognition, receive due acknowledgement.
The posthumous awards serve as poignant reminders of the enduring legacies left behind by those who dedicated their lives to the nation’s progress.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Padma Awards ceremony is more than a celebration of individual excellence; it is a reflection of India’s collective spirit and the power of perseverance, empathy, and service. By honouring a wide spectrum of contributors—from celebrated artists and jurists to unsung social workers—the awards encourage a culture of kindness, dialogue, and harmony.
The Logical Indian views this recognition as an opportunity to inspire citizens to engage in positive social change and foster coexistence. As we applaud these exemplary individuals, we invite our readers to reflect: How can we, in our own communities, recognise and support the quiet heroes who work tirelessly for the betterment of society?
