23 June,2026 06:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Alka Yagnik recieves Padma Bhushan. Pic via PTI
Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik was conferred the Padma Bhushan by President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday, June 23. Several videos from the ceremony held in New Delhi have surfaced online, showing Alka Yagnik making her first appearance amid her recovery from a rare condition since 2024.
Alka Yagnik was honoured with the Padma Bhushan award at the 65th Padma Awards during the second Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan for her exceptional contributions to music. The 60-year-old singer, who is undergoing treatment for a rare sensorineural hearing loss condition, needed assistance to reach the stage to receive the honour. The singer has been battling the condition caused by a sudden viral attack.
In the clip, the singer can be seen touching Prime Minister Modi's feet and greeting him with folded hands as a mark of respect before proceeding to accept the award from the President. She looked stunning in a printed kurta with intricate floral and paisley motifs. She further elevated her look with a complementary translucent organza dupatta, which was draped over her shoulder. She accessorises the outfit with a ring, a traditional red bindi, and gold bangles.
Fans congratulated the singer on receiving the honour and also raised concerns about her condition. Many even wished her a speedy recovery.
Legendary playback singer Alka Yagnik is currently battling a rare condition called Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL), which was caused by a sudden viral attack she suffered. She opened up about her condition back in 2024.
She revealed that the sudden hearing loss initially struck the singer in May 2024, catching her completely unaware. She added that although the condition is not life-threatening, it was difficult to reverse and could also cause permanent damage to the inner ear and auditory nerves.
Because of the hearing disorder, Yagnik was forced to step away from her music career, including recording studios and live performances. Alka has shared that although music composers continue to approach her for new assignments, she is unable to take on the work.
Despite the setback in her professional and musical life, the singer continues her treatments and rehabilitation.
