Celebrated playback singer Alka Yagnik has opened up about her health struggles after being honoured with the prestigious Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian awards.
Speaking after receiving the recognition, the singer acknowledged that the last two years have been particularly challenging due to health issues, but said the honour brought renewed strength and encouragement.
A prestigious honour amid personal challenges
Alka Yagnik was among the recipients of the Padma Bhushan, awarded for her exceptional contribution to Indian music spanning several decades.
As per NDTV, Reacting to the recognition, the singer expressed gratitude and described the award as a deeply emotional moment, especially given the health difficulties she has faced in recent years.
"It has been a difficult two years," she said, reflecting on the personal challenges that accompanied one of the most significant recognitions of her career.
Health concerns came into focus last year
In 2024, Yagnik revealed that she had been diagnosed with a rare hearing disorder, prompting concern among fans and members of the music industry.
The singer had spoken about the condition publicly, raising awareness about hearing-related health issues and encouraging people to protect their hearing health.
Her announcement was met with an outpouring of support from colleagues, fans and fellow musicians.
#अलका याज्ञिक पार्श्व गायिका (playback singer) 90s की मेलोडी क्वीन को #पद्म भूषण से सम्मानित किया गया । मुझे बेहद पसंद हैं ये....🤗
— Arpana s (@arpana_dhar) June 24, 2026
उम्र लगभग 60 की लेकिन सुंदरता वही ।
2024 में Sensorineural Hearing Loss की बीमारी उन्हें लगी और उन्हें उन्हें सुनने में बहुत दिक्कत होने लगी और… pic.twitter.com/6hJvjXw1F3
A legendary career in Indian music
Few voices have shaped Bollywood music as profoundly as Alka Yagnik's.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, she has delivered countless chart-topping songs and worked with some of the biggest composers and filmmakers in the industry.
Known for hits across the 1990s and 2000s, Yagnik remains one of the most beloved playback singers in Indian cinema.
Fans celebrate the recognition
The Padma Bhushan honour was widely welcomed by fans, many of whom described it as a well-deserved recognition of her immense contribution to Indian music.
Social media platforms were flooded with congratulatory messages celebrating both her achievements and resilience during a challenging period in her life.
Looking ahead with gratitude
Despite the difficulties she has faced, Yagnik expressed optimism and appreciation for the support she has received from loved ones, colleagues and admirers.
The Padma Bhushan, she said, serves as a reminder of the love and respect she has earned through decades of dedication to music.
FAQs:
Which award did Alka Yagnik receive?
Alka Yagnik was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian awards.
What health issue did Alka Yagnik reveal previously?
She had disclosed that she was dealing with a rare hearing disorder.
