Sonu Nigam Calls Out India’s ‘Pending Padma Awardees,’ Urges Recognition for Kishore Kumar

New Delhi : In a heartfelt Instagram video, Sonu Nigam voiced his disappointment over the omission of Kishore Kumar from the Padma Shri list, calling him an inspiration for singers worldwide. The popular singer also urged the recognition of contemporaries like Alka Yagnik, Shreya Ghoshal, and Sunidhi Chauhan.

Nigam, who himself was honored with the Padma Shri in 2022, expressed his surprise that Kishore Kumar, a legendary voice, has yet to receive the Padma Shri despite his lasting influence on the music industry. He highlighted that while Mohammed Rafi was awarded the honor in 1967, Kishore Kumar—who passed away in 1987—has not been similarly recognized.

In his video, Nigam pointed out the trend of posthumous awards and noted the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan being awarded to late singers like Sharda Sinha and Pankaj Udhas in the 2025 Padma Awards. He also advocated for the recognition of current stars like Alka Yagnik, Shreya Ghoshal, and Sunidhi Chauhan for their immense contributions to the Indian music industry.

“Alka Yagnik has had a phenomenal career and has yet to receive an award. Shreya Ghoshal’s brilliance deserves recognition, and Sunidhi Chauhan has inspired an entire generation with her unique voice,” Nigam said, urging the government to honor these deserving personalities.

At the end of his video, Nigam invited his followers to suggest other individuals, from various fields such as music, acting, science, and literature, who also deserve Padma Awards.