Padma Shri Award: India’s Honour for Service and Excellence
The Padma Shri Award is one of the most respected civilian awards of India. It is given to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to society through their work, talent, dedication, and service to the nation. This award not only honours famous personalities but also recognizes ordinary people who have done extraordinary work.
| Padma Shri Award explained with history and notable recipients | J K Online Classes |
History and Background
The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954 by the Government of India. These awards were created to recognize people who have worked selflessly in different fields and have helped in the development of the country.
The Padma Awards are divided into three categories:
- Padma Vibhushan (highest among Padma awards)
- Padma Bhushan
- Padma Shri
The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in India, after Bharat Ratna.
Purpose of the Padma Shri Award
The main purpose of the Padma Shri Award is to:
- Encourage excellence
- Honour dedication and service
- Recognize contributions that improve society
- Celebrate India’s diversity of talent
This award is given not only to celebrities but also to teachers, doctors, farmers, social workers, scientists, artists, craftsmen, and grassroots workers.
Fields in Which Padma Shri Is Awarded
The Padma Shri Award is given in a wide range of fields, including:
- Art (music, dance, painting, cinema)
- Literature and Education
- Science and Engineering
- Medicine
- Social Work
- Public Affairs
- Sports
- Trade and Industry
- Agriculture
- Civil Service
This wide range shows that every form of honest work and service is respected in India.
Selection Process
Anyone can nominate a person for the Padma Shri Award. Even self-nomination is allowed.
The nominations are reviewed by the Padma Awards Committee, which works under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The final approval is given by the President of India.
The names of the awardees are announced every year on 26 January (Republic Day), and the awards are presented later at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The Padma Shri Medal
The Padma Shri medal is bronze in colour and has a lotus flower in the centre. The lotus is India’s national flower and symbolizes purity, hope, and strength.
Important and Famous Padma Shri Award Recipients
Over the years, many great personalities from different fields have received the Padma Shri Award. Some important and well-known recipients are mentioned below:
1. Lata Mangeshkar (Art – Music)
Lata Mangeshkar, known as the “Nightingale of India,” received the Padma Shri for her immense contribution to Indian music. Her voice ruled Indian cinema for decades and touched millions of hearts.
2. Sachin Tendulkar (Sports – Cricket)
Sachin Tendulkar, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, received the Padma Shri at a very young age. His dedication, discipline, and records inspired generations of young players.
3. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (Science & Public Service)
Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, India’s “Missile Man,” received the Padma Shri for his contribution to India’s space and missile programs. Later, he also became the President of India and a role model for students.
4. Milkha Singh (Sports – Athletics)
Milkha Singh, popularly known as the “Flying Sikh,” was awarded the Padma Shri for his achievements in athletics. He brought pride to India on international platforms.
5. Bhimsen Joshi (Art – Classical Music)
Pandit Bhimsen Joshi was a legendary Hindustani classical singer. His dedication to Indian classical music earned him the Padma Shri and later higher civilian honors.
6. Bachendri Pal (Adventure Sports – Mountaineering):
Bachendri Pal received the Padma Shri in 1984 for becoming the first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest. Her achievement inspired millions and strengthened the role of women in adventure sports in India.
7. Sonal Mansingh (Art – Classical Dance)
Sonal Mansingh is a renowned Bharatanatyam and Odissi dancer. Her contribution to Indian classical dance earned her the Padma Shri and international recognition.
8. M. S. Subbulakshmi (Art – Music)
M. S. Subbulakshmi was a legendary Carnatic singer. Her devotional songs and classical performances brought Indian music to global audiences.
9. Kailash Kher (Art – Music)
Kailash Kher, known for his soulful voice, received the Padma Shri for promoting Indian folk and devotional music in a modern style.
10. Unsung Heroes
In recent years, the Padma Shri Award has also honoured:
- Farmers who developed new farming methods
- Teachers who educated children in remote villages
- Doctors who served poor communities
- Social workers who fought for women’s rights, environment protection, and education
This shows that the Padma Shri is not only about fame but about real service to society.
Importance of Padma Shri Award
The Padma Shri Award plays a very important role in Indian society because:
- It motivates people to serve the nation honestly
- It highlights positive role models
- It gives recognition to hidden talents
- It promotes national unity and pride
Conclusion
The Padma Shri Award is more than just a medal. It is a symbol of respect, dedication, and national gratitude. It reminds us that every citizen, whether famous or unknown, can contribute to the progress of the country. By honouring people from different backgrounds and fields, the Padma Shri Award truly represents the spirit of India.
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