Tue May 27 17:56:25 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

On May 27, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Awards, one of India’s highest civilian honors, to 68 eminent personalities at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Former Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar received the Padma Vibhushan. Other notable recipients included dancer Shobana Chandrakumar, actor Anant Nag, footballer I.M. Vijayan, music composer Ricky Kej, and KGMU Vice Chancellor Soniya Nityanand. Nine individuals were awarded the Padma Bhushan, and numerous others received the Padma Shri. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A total of 139 individuals were honored this year across two investiture ceremonies.

**News Article:**

**President Murmu Honors 68 with Padma Awards in Second Investiture Ceremony**

**New Delhi, May 27, 2025** – President Droupadi Murmu today bestowed the prestigious Padma Awards upon 68 distinguished individuals at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This marks the second investiture ceremony this year, bringing the total number of awardees to 139.

Former Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the nation’s second-highest civilian honor, for his exceptional contributions to public affairs.

Among the other notable recipients were dancer Shobana Chandrakumar, who was awarded the Padma Bhushan, and actor Anant Nag, who also received a Padma Bhushan for his work in the arts. Padma Shri recipients included footballer I.M. Vijayan, music composer Ricky Kej, and Vice Chancellor of King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Soniya Nityanand.

The awards also recognized posthumous contributions, with the Padma Vibhushan being conferred upon late folk singer Sharda Sinha and late Kathak dancer Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia. Family members accepted the awards on their behalf.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were among the dignitaries present at the ceremony, highlighting the significance of these national honors. The Padma Awards recognize exceptional service in various fields, including arts, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.

The complete list of awardees for 2025 reflects India’s diverse talent and contributions across numerous sectors. The awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of these individuals, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence.

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