In an Instagram post shared on Saturday, Andre, whose full name is Andre Lauren Benjamin, explained that while he will not be present at the ceremony, some of the New Blue Sun musicians, along with friends and supporters, will be there on his behalf. He expressed his gratitude and excitement about the nominations, reflecting on the album’s creative process.

“Unfortunately, I’m not able to attend the GRAMMYs tomorrow, but some of the New Blue Sun musicians, friends, and supporters will be in attendance,” Andre wrote. “Our album was conceived and recorded in Los Angeles with the spirit of openness and creative collaboration. We hope that the rebound of Los Angeles is swift and renewing. Congrats to all the musicians and collaborators being acknowledged. Keep playing.”

This year’s ceremony, which will take place on February 2 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, will be hosted by Trevor Noah for the fifth consecutive time. The event will also include performances by high-profile artists like Billie Eilish, Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Shakira, Bruno Mars, and Lady Gaga. Additionally, it will raise funds for wildfire relief efforts in the region.

Beyoncé leads the nominations with 11, while Kendrick Lamar, Charli XCX, and Billie Eilish each have seven nominations. Other top contenders include Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chappell Roan.

Presenters for the night will feature an impressive lineup of stars, including Swift, Will Smith, Olivia Rodrigo, Cardi B, Queen Latifah, and SZA. Despite Andre 3000’s absence, his musical contribution and New Blue Sun‘s recognition have already made a significant impact on this year’s awards.

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In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed: “Commemorating excellence & contributions to society. Congratulations to our distinguished friends from abroad on being selected for Padma Awards 2025 by President Droupadi Murmu for their outstanding contribution in various fields.”

Among the notable international honorees is Osamu Suzuki of Japan, who has been posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan in the Trade and Industry category for his monumental impact on the global business world.

Vinod Dham from the United States has been conferred the Padma Bhushan in Science and Engineering for his pioneering contributions to the field of technology and innovation.

Eight individuals have been honored with the Padma Shri award, including prominent figures such as Ajay V Bhatt, Sethuraman Panchanathan from the US, and Chetan E Chitnis from France, all recognized for their work in science and engineering. The Padma Shri in Literature and Education was awarded to Stephen Knapp, Nitin Nohria (both from the US), and Arvind Sharma from Canada, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to academia and intellectual growth.

Additionally, the Padma Shri in Spiritualism was awarded to Jonas Masetti from Brazil, while Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah from Kuwait received the award in the field of Medicine.

The Padma Awards, categorized into Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are conferred by the President of India in recognition of distinguished service to the nation and society. The awards are presented at a grand ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, typically in March or April each year.

The list of Padma Awardees for 2025 includes a total of 139 honorees, with 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri recipients. Among the awardees are 23 women, alongside 10 distinguished foreign nationals, non-resident Indians (NRIs), persons of Indian origin (PIOs), and overseas citizens of India (OCIs). The awards also recognize 13 posthumous honorees, reflecting a broad and diverse range of contributions.

This year’s Padma Awards highlight the global reach of India’s recognition of outstanding contributions across various fields, celebrating those who have helped shape the country’s international standing and made a lasting impact on society.

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Adnan Sami revealed that he had been nominated to the Padma Awards Committee by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The singer took to his Instagram account to thank the Prime Minister and the esteemed members of the committee. “I am profoundly grateful to the Honourable Prime Minister Modi ji for nominating me to the prestigious Padma Awards Committee. It has been an immense privilege to serve alongside distinguished members and be inspired by the remarkable stories of awardees from diverse walks of life,” Sami wrote in his post. He further added, “Their achievements are a testament to the indomitable spirit of India. I extend my warmest congratulations to all the Padma Awardees. It was my high honour to serve India and be part of this noble process. Jai Hind.”

The Padma Awards are among the highest civilian honors in India and are conferred annually on the recommendations of the Padma Awards Committee. This committee is constituted by the Prime Minister each year and is led by the Cabinet Secretary, with members including eminent persons from various fields. The awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, recognizing individuals for their exceptional and distinguished service in various disciplines.

In his message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Padma Awardees, emphasizing their dedication, hard work, and perseverance. “India is proud to honour and celebrate their extraordinary achievements. Their dedication and perseverance are truly motivating. Each awardee is synonymous with hard work, passion, and innovation, which has positively impacted countless lives,” Modi said. “They teach us the value of striving for excellence and serving society selflessly.”

The 2025 Padma Awards list includes a wide range of honorees from diverse sectors, including film, music, art, and social service. Among the Padma Bhushan awardees are famous actors Anant Nag, Jatin Goswami, Nandamuri Balakrishna, S Ajith Kumar, and Shekhar Kapur, as well as the late Pankaj Udhas, honored posthumously. Notable Padma Shri awardees include Arijit Singh, Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, comedian Ashok Saraf, and the Grammy-winning musician Ricky Kej.

The prestigious Padma Awards will be formally conferred by the President of India in a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan, which typically takes place in March or April each year.

Through this recognition of extraordinary individuals, the Padma Awards continue to serve as a reminder of India’s rich cultural heritage, commitment to excellence, and the power of perseverance across various fields.

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Her son, Anshuman Sinha, expressed his pride and gratitude, stating, “It is a matter of great pride for Bihar… This is a milestone in Bihar’s history to have achieved all three highest honors in the field of folk music.” Anshuman thanked the government for the honor and emphasized how this recognition would inspire future generations to take pride in folk music. He added, “This was long awaited, and I heartily accept it. I congratulate the entire nation for the honor bestowed upon folk culture.”

Known as “Bihar Kokila,” Sharda Sinha’s voice became synonymous with the cultural richness of the state, particularly through her iconic renditions for the Chhath Mahaparv festival, a key celebration dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. Her music bridged local and national folk traditions, leaving a lasting imprint not just in Bihar but across India.

Having battled multiple myeloma, Sharda Sinha passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 72. Her passing was met with widespread grief, as tributes poured in from all corners of the nation, including from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On social media, the Prime Minister expressed his sorrow, describing her as an “irreplaceable figure” in the Indian music industry. He remarked, “Her contribution to Bhojpuri and Maithili folk music is immense, and the echo of her melodious songs will last forever. Her demise is an irreparable loss to the world of music.”

Sharda Sinha’s illustrious career began in the 1970s, and she was previously honored with the Padma Bhushan for her contributions to Indian music. Her music transcended regional boundaries, winning the hearts of audiences across India. This posthumous Padma Vibhushan accolade further cements her legacy as a titan in the world of Indian folk music.

In a year filled with challenges and sorrow for her family, this honor serves as a fitting tribute to her decades of dedication, preserving and enriching the cultural fabric of Bihar and beyond. The Padma Vibhushan recognizes not just an individual’s talent but the lasting impact of their work on future generations—a sentiment that echoes in the voices of those who continue to carry forward Sharda Sinha’s musical legacy.

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Outstanding Awardees of 2025

Among the notable names in the list is Harvinder Singh, the para-archer from Kaithal, Haryana, who made history by winning India’s first gold medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games. He has been awarded the Padma Shri for his remarkable achievement. Also being honored is Arijit Singh, the soulful singer known for his melodic voice, who receives the Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian music.

Other significant figures include Sadhvi Ritambhara, a prominent social worker, and Osamu Suzuki, the former CEO of Suzuki Motors, who are both recipients of the Padma Bhushan. In the Padma Vibhushan category, we see the posthumous awards of Sharda Sinha, a legendary folk singer, and Osamu Suzuki, recognizing their monumental contributions to their respective fields.

The list also features individuals who have excelled in diverse areas such as economist Bibek Debroy, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Manohar Joshi, and the celebrated Indian hockey player PR Sreejesh. Shekhar Kapur, the renowned film director, and Pankaj Udhas, a prominent playback singer, are among the distinguished recipients of the Padma Bhushan.

Posthumous Honors and Diverse Contributions

Among the 113 Padma Shri awardees, we find recognition for individuals who have made lasting impacts in their fields. Ricky Kej, a Grammy-winning musician, and Stephen Knapp, an American author and researcher on Vedic culture, are among those honored for their global contributions.

Additionally, Neerja Bhatla, a specialist in cervical cancer, and Shaikha AJ Al Sabah, a Kuwaiti yoga practitioner, are notable names in the Padma Shri list. The awards also pay tribute to Kishore Kunal, President of the Bihar Religious Board and Secretary of Mahavir Mandir Trust, posthumously.

Recognizing Women and Global Influence

The 2025 Padma Awards also shine a spotlight on women achievers, with 23 women making it to the list. This includes Neerja Bhatla, a leading figure in medicine, and Shobana Chandrakumar, an acclaimed classical dancer, among others. Moreover, the list acknowledges contributions from across the globe, with awardees from countries like the United States, Japan, and Brazil, further emphasizing India’s growing influence on the international stage.

Categories of Recognition

The Padma Awards are given in three categories:

• Padma Vibhushan: For exceptional and distinguished service.
• Padma Bhushan: For distinguished service of a high order.
• Padma Shri: For distinguished service in any field.

The 2025 Padma Awards honor individuals whose dedication and excellence have enriched various aspects of Indian society and beyond. These awards will be conferred by President Droupadi Murmu in a ceremonial function at Rashtrapati Bhawan, usually held in March or April.

With this year’s Padma Awards, India once again celebrates the unsung heroes and legendary figures whose work has paved the way for progress and excellence, both within the country and internationally.

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In his acceptance remarks, streamed on the social media platform X,

Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the SIES, one of India’s oldest educational societies, for the exceptional honour. He reflected on the enduring contributions of Maha Periyavar, including the celebrated musical composition “Maithreem Bhajatham,” which advocates universal brotherhood and compassion. He emphasized the international reach and influence of Maha Periyavar’s vision, noting how his teachings resonate on the global stage.

Jaishankar’s speech underscored India’s emergence as an independent power committed to global welfare, particularly the well-being of the Global South. He emphasized the importance of self-confidence in the nation’s capabilities, urging people to disregard voices that undermine India’s potential. “This confidence,” he stated, “is what makes India a timeless reality in an ever-changing world.”

He pointed out that India’s growing assertiveness stems from a sense of independence, which does not signify distancing from dominant global narratives but instead reflects India’s ability to approach challenges with unique solutions. Citing examples, he highlighted India’s advocacy for diplomacy and dialogue during conflicts when much of the world had turned away, its uncompromising stance on terrorism, its support for the African Union in the G20, and its leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. These actions, he said, showcase India’s commitment to doing what is right for its national interest and the global good.

Jaishankar clarified that independence should not be mistaken for neutrality. “Bharat can never permit others to have a veto on its choices,” he declared, emphasizing that the nation’s decisions are guided by its interests and moral compass. He also pointed to India’s promotion of Shree Anna (millets), Yoga, and its broader civilizational heritage as examples of how the country is deepening its global influence.

The minister highlighted that a strong belief in India’s capabilities, coupled with a recognition of its rich traditions and heritage, will shape its journey toward prosperity. He credited the teachings of Maha Periyavar as a guiding force in this transformative journey, asserting that such values will continue to drive India’s aspirations on the global stage.

This honour recognizes Jaishankar’s pivotal role in shaping India’s foreign policy and his efforts to position Bharat as a nation of significance in the evolving global order.

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The Champions of the Earth 2024 Awards, which recognize outstanding contributions to environmental preservation, named six individuals as laureates this year. Alongside Gadgil, the awardees include Amy Bowers Cordalis and Gabriel Paun for Inspiration and Action; Lu Qi for Science and Innovation; Sekem for Entrepreneurial Vision; and Sonia Guajajara for Policy Leadership.

The announcement was made via a post on the United Nations’ Mission in India’s social media platform X, highlighting Gadgil’s crucial role in environmental restoration efforts. The UNEP also shared a message inviting people to join the collective action for environmental protection, emphasizing the importance of the #GenerationRestoration movement.

Madhav Gadgil, known for his vast contributions to ecological conservation, has authored seven books and over 200 scientific papers. His groundbreaking work, the “Gadgil Report,” advocated for the protection of India’s ecologically sensitive Western Ghats mountain range, a region crucial to the country’s biodiversity.

Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, praised Gadgil for his long-standing commitment to environmental conservation. “Science can help us find solutions to the devastating loss of nature our world is experiencing. Madhav Gadgil has demonstrated this for decades,” said Andersen. He further highlighted that Gadgil’s work combines scientific rigor with deep respect for local communities and their traditional knowledge, providing lasting solutions to some of India’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Throughout his illustrious career, Gadgil has made significant strides in both research and policy. As the founder of the Centre for Ecological Sciences at the Indian Institute of Science, one of his most notable achievements was establishing India’s first biosphere reserve, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, in 1986. His efforts in conservation have been instrumental in the development of various government policies, including India’s Biological Diversity Act and the Forest Rights Act, where he played a key role in helping forest communities create biodiversity monitoring systems for local ecosystems.

Gadgil’s profound impact on environmental science and policy has earned him several prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, and the Volvo Environment Prize.

This lifetime achievement award further cements Madhav Gadgil’s legacy as one of the leading voices in global environmental conservation and a champion for sustainable solutions.

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