Started in 1954, the Padma Bhushan Award is one of the top honors in India. The government gives this award to people who have done great work in their field. It is the third-highest civilian award in the country, after the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan. The award honors people who serve the nation in areas like government work, arts, literature, education, business, science, sports, medicine, and social work.
Every year, the government announces the Padma Bhushan award list on January 25th, just before Republic Day. Many people look forward to this day. The Padma Bhushan award list has names of people from different backgrounds. These people have made a big difference through their hard work, skill, and dedication.
History and Significance of the Padma Bhushan Award
The Padma Awards were established by the Government of India to recognize exceptional achievements in a wide range of disciplines. Initially, the awards were classified under a single category known as the “Padma Vibhushan,” with three levels. Later, in 1955, these were reclassified into three separate awards Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
The Padma Bhushan Award is conferred by the President of India at a ceremonial function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. What makes this award notable is that it is not limited to Indian citizens; it can also be awarded to foreigners and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who have contributed significantly to Indian society or humanity at large.
Criteria for Selection
To be included in the Padma Bhushan award list, an individual must have displayed:
- Exceptional service of high order in their field
- Long-standing dedication and achievement
- A demonstrable positive impact on society
Recommendations are submitted to the Padma Awards Committee, constituted by the Prime Minister annually. This committee carefully scrutinizes each nomination and sends a list of recommended candidates to the President for approval.
Importantly, the award is not given posthumously, except in highly deserving cases, and cannot be used as a title or for personal gain.
Padma Bhushan Award List 2024: A Glimpse
The Padma Bhushan award list 2024 included some of the most inspiring names from various domains. This year’s honorees reflect India’s diversity, unity, and cultural richness. Notable awardees included:
- S. Jaishankar (Public Affairs) – India’s External Affairs Minister, recognized for his exemplary diplomacy and contribution to India’s foreign policy.
- M. Venkaiah Naidu (Public Affairs) – Former Vice President of India, acknowledged for decades of service in public life and governance.
- Vyjayantimala Bali (Art) – Veteran classical dancer and actress, celebrated for her contribution to Indian cinema and Bharatanatyam.
- Bindeshwar Pathak (Social Work) – Founder of Sulabh International, honored posthumously for transforming sanitation practices in India.
- Konidela Chiranjeevi (Art – Cinema) – Legendary actor in Telugu cinema and former Union Minister, awarded for his contributions to Indian cinema and public service.
These honorees were selected based on their lifetime achievements and the positive societal change they have created through their work.
Prominent Personalities from Past Padma Bhushan Award Lists
Over the years, the Padma Bhushan award list has included many iconic names whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Some of the prominent awardees include:
- Amitabh Bachchan (2001) – For his legendary contribution to Indian cinema.
- Ratan Tata (2000) – Industrialist and philanthropist who transformed the Tata Group into a global powerhouse.
- Sachin Tendulkar (2008) – The “Master Blaster” of cricket, celebrated for elevating Indian cricket to new heights.
- Satyajit Ray (1965) – Visionary filmmaker whose cinematic genius brought Indian storytelling to the global stage.
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (1981) – Renowned scientist and later President of India, honored for his work in aerospace and defense.
These individuals not only excelled in their professions but also became role models for millions.
Diversity in Recognition
One of the key strengths of the Padma Bhushan award list is its inclusivity. The awards span across numerous categories, recognizing contributions from artists, scientists, doctors, social reformers, sportspersons, industrialists, and even spiritual leaders.
This diversity ensures that talent is acknowledged regardless of background, region, language, or popularity. For example, unsung heroes working in remote parts of India, those who have revolutionized local education systems, and medical practitioners serving tribal populations have all found a place on the list.
This democratization of recognition reflects the true spirit of India, a country that celebrates excellence in all forms.
The Process Behind the Award
The selection process of the Padma Awards, including the Padma Bhushan award list, is rigorous and transparent. Here is a brief outline:
- Nominations – Anyone can nominate or be nominated. The Government even invites public nominations through an online portal.
- Shortlisting – A committee comprising senior government officials, ex-bureaucrats, and domain experts evaluates the nominations.
- Approval – After multiple levels of scrutiny, the final list is approved by the Prime Minister and then forwarded to the President for final confirmation.
Transparency in the process ensures credibility, while public participation makes it democratic.
Padma Bhushan vs Other Civilian Awards
To better understand the significance of the Padma Bhushan award list, it’s helpful to compare it with other civilian awards in India:
| Award | Rank | Purpose | Example of Awardees |
| Bharat Ratna | 1st | Exceptional service towards the advancement of art, literature, science, and public service | Mother Teresa, Atal Bihari Vajpayee |
| Padma Vibhushan | 2nd | Exceptional and distinguished service | Lata Mangeshkar, Narayana Murthy |
| Padma Bhushan | 3rd | Distinguished service of a high order | Amitabh Bachchan, S. Jaishankar |
| Padma Shri | 4th | Distinguished service in any field | Ekta Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut |
Each award builds upon the other, with the Padma Bhushan award list acting as a vital midpoint that honors sustained excellence over time.
Impact of the Padma Bhushan Award
Being featured on the Padma Bhushan award list is not just a personal honor; it has a much broader impact:
- Public Recognition – Brings unsung heroes to the forefront, allowing the general public to know and learn from their stories.
- Inspiration – Encourages youth and professionals to strive for excellence and serve society.
- Cultural Documentation – Acts as a historical record of individuals who have helped shape modern India.
The award serves both as recognition and as an aspiration for others.
Conclusion
The Padma Bhushan award list shows the kind of people India respects. It honors those who have done good work for the country. These people have helped India grow with their knowledge, creativity, and service.
Fame comes and goes fast. The Padma Bhushan honors real and lasting success. Every person on the list has worked hard for many years. They have kept going without making noise. They stayed focused on helping others.
Each year, new names join the Padma Bhushan award list. This shows that India has many gifted people. It also shows that India never forgets to thank those who work hard and shine bright.
