Sonu Nigam expresses dissatisfaction with Padma Awards 2025 and raises questions over Kishore Kumar,Shreya Ghoshal

The Padma Award 2025 is one of India’s highest civilian awards and has been a source of controversy and debate .While the Padma Shri and Padma Awards recognise individuals for their outstanding contributions in various fields, popular singer Sonu Nigam has indeed expressed his dissatisfaction with the final list of these individuals. In his statement, Nigam pointed out that legends like Kishore Kumar, Alka Yagnik and Shreya Ghoshal have made immense contributions to Indian music but have yet to receive this prestige award.

The Padma Award is a significant award given to individuals across the country who have made outstanding contributions in the fields of arts, literature, science, sports and public relations. However, the awarding process has often been criticised for overlooking a few deserving individuals. The announcement of Padma Awards 2025 this year has sparked a huge debate, especially due to the absence of many musicians and singers from the list.

Sonu Nigam's concern

Sonu Nigam is one of the well-known names in the Indian music industry and has given many memorable Bollywood songs over the decades. However, in a recent interview, Sonu Nigam expressed his disappointment that Kishore Kumar, who is considered the voice of an entire generation, was not awarded the Padma Shri. Nigam also pointed out that Alka Yagnik, who has sung some of the most popular songs in Bollywood for the last 30 years, was being ignored despite her contribution to Bollywood. He also asked why Shreya Ghoshal, one of the most respected and loved dubbing artists of today, was not given the Padma Shri Award. Why does Kishore Kumar deserve the Padma Bhajan?.

Kishore Kumar, a legendary name in the Indian music industry.

Kishore Kumar, a legendary name in the Indian music industry, needs no introduction. His unparalleled versatility as a singer, performer and songwriter has made him one of the most sought-after names in the music industry. Despite his immense contributions to Indian cinema, Kishore Kumar has never received the Padma Shri award. His beautiful voice has touched millions of people over the years and his songs are still admired to this day. The absence of the word Padma Vibhushan in the band’s name has surprised many music lovers and industry veterans. Sonu Nigam also expressed shock and sadness at the attention and said that it is time for the Indian government to learn about Kishore Kumar’s past. Shreya Ghoshal not selected for Padma award.

Shreya Ghoshal is one of the most popular singers of modern times and has won many awards throughout her career, including the National Film Award and the Filmfare Award. Her unique voice and ability to adapt to different genres of music has made her one of the most popular singers in India. Despite all the praise and appreciation she has received from the audience and other actors, Shreya Ghoshal has not received the Padma Award, leaving many wondering why the talented actress and her merits have not been recognised. Sonu Nigam calls for recognition Sonu Nigam’s comments reflect growing concerns about the lack of recognition for veteran artists who shape Indian music. The Padma awards, despite being prestigious, have often been criticised for neglecting deserving individuals, especially in the music industry. Nigam, who has had a long and successful career himself, emphasised the importance of recognising the contributions of these artists who have played a significant role in defining music across generations.

Conclusion:

The 2025 Padma Awards sparked a huge controversy in the Indian music industry after Sonu Nigam’s comments on the exclusion of Kishore Kumar, Alka Yagnik and Shreya Ghoshal from the list of winners drew attention. Despite their undeniable contributions to the music industry, these legendary artists were not included in the list, raising questions about the fairness and transparency of the process. As India continues to honour its cultural icons, it is important to ensure that those who truly create the country’s artistic legacy are recognised, regardless of their fame or status.