Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik opened up about her health and expressed gratitude after receiving the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards, during a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23. The award was presented to her by President Droupadi Murmu.

Yagnik, who is renowned for her contributions to Indian cinema music, particularly noted for hits like "Agar Tum Saath Ho," visibly required assistance to walk during the event, drawing public attention to her health condition. In an emotional post on Instagram, she revealed that she had largely kept away from public appearances for the past two years due to ongoing health challenges.

“For the last two years, I have stayed away from the spotlight, from public appearances, and from sharing much of my journey,” she wrote. She acknowledged the support, prayers, and messages she received from fans and well-wishers throughout her health struggles.

Accepting the Padma Bhushan, Yagnik described the honour as deeply humbling and extended her gratitude not only to the government but also to millions of listeners who have embraced her music across generations. “While my name may be on it, it belongs just as much to every listener who welcomed my voice into their lives, carried my songs through generations, and stood by me through both the highs and the challenges,” she said.

In her message, Yagnik thanked President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Government of India for the recognition. She emphasized that the award was more than a personal accolade, reflecting the collective support she has received over the years.

Alka Yagnik has established herself as one of the most successful and versatile playback singers in Indian cinema, known for recording songs in multiple languages. Her recent public appearance and candid remarks have rekindled conversations about her health while highlighting her enduring legacy in the music industry.