Shekhar Kapur, Arijit Singh, Jaspinder Narula get honoured with Padma Bhushan Awards 2025, watch

It was a momentous Monday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi as the nation celebrated the recipients of the prestigious Padma Awards 2025.1 A constellation of stars from the Indian entertainment industry graced the occasion, receiving their honours from President Droupadi Murmu.2 Among the distinguished awardees were the acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, the melodious voices of Jaspinder Narula and Arijit Singh, the versatile actor Nandamuri Balakrishna, and the charismatic Ajith Kumar. The globally recognized music composer Ricky Kej also received his well-deserved recognition.3 The legendary ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas was honoured posthumously, a poignant moment that acknowledged his immense contribution to the world of music.

Shekhar Kapur, known for his directorial brilliance in films like "Mr. India" and "Bandit Queen," expressed his profound gratitude on social media. In a heartfelt post on X, he shared his humility and the honour he felt at being considered worthy of the Padma Bhushan.5 He further articulated his commitment to continue serving the Indian film industry and the nation, acknowledging the pivotal role of the audience in his journey.

Jaspinder Narula, whose powerful and soulful voice has graced numerous Bollywood hits and Punjabi folk songs, was visibly moved as she accepted the Padma Bhushan. Her decades-long dedication to music and her ability to connect with listeners across generations have cemented her place as a beloved artist.

Arijit Singh, the contemporary singing sensation who has captured the hearts of millions with his emotive renditions, also received the prestigious award. His contribution to modern Indian music and his widespread popularity underscore the impact of his talent.

Nandamuri Balakrishna, a stalwart of Telugu cinema, was recognized for his long and impactful career in acting and his significant contributions to the regional film industry.6 Similarly, Ajith Kumar, a leading figure in Tamil cinema, was honoured for his compelling performances and his influence on the South Indian film landscape.7