Classical vocalist Som Datt Battu received the Padma Shri award from the Government of India on Thursday. President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious honour in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi.
Battu, based in Shimla, was recognized for his significant contributions to classical music, as announced by the Chief Minister’s office. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed pride in Battu’s achievement, highlighting its importance for the state on Republic Day.
In addition to Battu, Jordan Lepcha was also honoured with the Padma Shri for his contributions to the field of art.
The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honours, are bestowed in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These awards acknowledge outstanding individuals across various fields, including art, social work, science, literature, sports, and civil service. Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service, and Padma Shri for notable contributions in any field. The recipients are announced annually on Republic Day.
The recognition of Battu and Lepcha underscores their exemplary dedication and impact in their respective fields, reflecting the diverse talents and contributions that enrich India’s cultural landscape.