Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik was honoured with the Padma Bhushan on June 23. The singer who has been struggling with her health as she was diagnosed with a hearing disorder in 2024. She penned an emotional note as she received the prestigious civilian award from President Droupadi Murmu during the second investiture ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.Alka took to Instagram to share her gratitude with fans and well-wishers. In her post, she also opened up about her ongoing health struggles, revealing details about the challenges she has faced over the past two years.Reflecting on her absence from public life, Alka wrote, “For the last two years, I have stayed away from the spotlight, from public appearances, and from sharing much of my journey. Many of you knew I am going through difficult health issues, and through it all, your love, prayers, messages, and unwavering support have stayed with me every step of the way.”She added, “Today, as I stepped out to receive one of highest civilian honours in the country – the distinguished Padma Bhushan, I did so with a heart full of gratitude. This honour is deeply humbling, and while my name may be on it, it belongs just as much to every listener who welcomed my voice into their lives, carried my songs through generations, and stood by me through both the highs and the challenges. This moment feels especially meaningful because it marks not just a recognition of my work, but a reminder of the strength that comes from love, hope, and resilience. I am slowly finding my way back, and I wanted to be here today – not only for myself, but for each and every one of you who have been a part of this journey.”Her emotional note drew an outpouring of love from members of the music and film industries, who congratulated her on the achievement and wished her a speedy recovery.Playback singer Kumar Sanu, with whom Alka has delivered numerous chart-topping songs over the years, commented, “Very well deserved Alka! God bless you.” Sanu and Alka have been one of the most iconic singing duos who’ve given the industry many memorable songs. Singer Shaan also celebrated the honour, writing, “Most deserved, Alka Ji!!! You are our pride and joy!!! And nothing would please your fans more than you finding your health and wellbeing back and finding the confidence and motivation to come back to regale us with your voice like only you can!!”Actress and singer Ila Arun expressed her admiration, writing, “So proud of you.” Meanwhile, Bhumi Pednekar, Veer Pahariya and singer Aditi Singh Sharma shared congratulatory reactions through emojis. Singer Akriti Kakkar added, “Nobody deserves it more than you. Our undisputed queen – praying for your smiles and good health always.”Singer Sudesh Bhosle also extended his wishes, commenting, “Heartiest congratulations, Alkaji. God bless you.”For those not in the know, Alka’s health became a matter of public concern last year when she revealed that she had been diagnosed with a rare hearing disorder. In June 2024, the singer disclosed that she had suddenly lost her hearing after stepping off a flight, leaving fans shocked and worried about her condition.Despite her health challenges, Alka Yagnik continues to remain one of the most iconic voices in Indian music. Her popularity extends far beyond traditional media, with the singer earning a place in the Guinness World Records after recording 17 billion YouTube streams in 2021 and 16.6 billion streams in 2020. Even in 2026, she remains the platform’s most-streamed weekly music artist.Over the course of her remarkable career, Alka has received numerous honours, including two National Film Awards and now a Padma Bhushan cementing her legacy as one of the most celebrated playback singers in the history of Indian cinema.
