Veteran singer Alka Yagnik has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Indian music. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Awards 2026 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday.
Known for her melodious voice and versatility, Alka Yagnik has sung songs in multiple Indian languages and remains one of the most successful playback singers in the history of Indian cinema.
Born in Kolkata into a family with a musical background, she began singing at a young age. She rose to prominence with songs in films such as Tezaab, where her chartbuster 'Ek Do Teen' became a nationwide sensation. Over the years, she delivered several iconic songs across genres, lending her voice to memorable tracks like 'Choli Ke Peeche' from Khalnayak, 'Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se' from Dhadkan, the Hum Tum title track, 'Ghoongat Ki Aad Se' from Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, and the Kuch Kuch Hota Hai title song, among others.
Alka Yagnik's extensive body of work earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Filmfare Awards for Best Female Playback Singer and several prestigious honours from the Indian music and film industry. She has collaborated with some of the country's most renowned music composers and singers, becoming the voice behind generations of Bollywood melodies.
