Padma Awards 2025 / Yoga trainer from Kuwait, Vedanta Guru from Brazil, Padma awards announced in the country

Padma Awards 2025: The central government announced the winners of the Padma Awards 2025 on Saturday, on the eve of the 76th Republic Day. This year's list features numerous unsung heroes and unique personalities who have made exceptional contributions in their respective fields. Among these inspirational figures are international names such as Himachal Pradesh's "Apple King" Hariman, Kuwaiti yoga instructor Sheikha A.J. Al Sabah, and Brazilian Vedanta teacher Jonas Masetti.

30 Unsung Heroes Honored

This year, the Padma Shri award recognizes 30 unsung heroes who have brought a new direction to society through their work. These include Goa’s 100-year-old freedom fighter Libya Lobo Sardesai, West Bengal’s Dhak (traditional drum) maestro Gokul Chandra Dey, and India’s first female puppeteer, among others. These individuals symbolize excellence in various fields.

---

Inspirational Personalities and Their Contributions

Libya Lobo Sardesai (Goa)

Libya co-founded the underground radio station Voz da Liberdade during Goa’s freedom struggle in 1955. Her contribution became a powerful medium of awareness against Portuguese rule.

Gokul Chandra Dey (West Bengal)

Gokul broke barriers in a male-dominated field by training 150 women to play the Dhak. He also innovated a lightweight Dhak, giving the traditional musical instrument a modern identity.

Dr. Neerja Bhatla (Delhi)

A leading gynecologist, Dr. Bhatla has been honored for her exceptional work in the diagnosis and management of cervical cancer.

Bhim Singh Bhavesh (Bihar)

Dedicated to social work for 22 years, Bhim Singh has tirelessly worked for the upliftment of the Musahar community. His organization, Nayi Aasha, has transformed marginalized lives.

Sally Holkar (Madhya Pradesh)

A staunch advocate for women’s empowerment, Sally revived Maheshwari crafts and preserved traditional weaving techniques. Her efforts have brought renewed life to this heritage art form.

---

Contributions from South India

• P. Datchanamoorthy (Puducherry)
  Awarded the Padma Shri for his excellence in classical Thavil drumming, Datchanamoorthy's five-decade career has enriched South Indian culture.

• L. Hangthing (Nagaland)
  A specialist in fruit production, farmer L. Hangthing from Noklak has shared his 30 years of experience in cultivating non-native fruits, creating new opportunities in agriculture.

---

The Significance of the Padma Awards

The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honors and are presented in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These awards recognize extraordinary contributions in diverse fields such as arts, literature, medicine, sports, social work, and public service.

---

List of 2025 Awardees

This year’s list includes personalities contributing at both national and international levels:

1. Hariman Sharma (Himachal Pradesh)
2. Joynacharan Bathari (Assam)
3. Sheikha A.J. Al Sabah (Kuwait)
4. Jonas Masetti (Brazil)
5. Suresh Soni (Gujarat)
6. Libya Lobo Sardesai (Goa)
7. Dr. Neerja Bhatla (Delhi)
8. Bhim Singh Bhavesh (Bihar)
9. Sally Holkar (Madhya Pradesh)

---

Padma Awards Committee and Selection Process

The Padma Awards are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. Winners are selected by the Padma Awards Committee, formed by the Prime Minister. This process identifies individuals who have made exemplary contributions in their respective domains and infused new energy into the nation’s progress.