History, Art & CultureImportant2025-01-25

Padma Awards 2025 Recognise Cultural Icons

Q: Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the art forms and awards highlighted in the Padma Awards 2025?

1 only — Statement 1 is correct as Sattriya is a classical dance form introduced in the 15th century by Vaishnava saint Srimanta Sankardev in Assam. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Padma Awards Committee is constituted by the Prime Minister every year, not the President of India (though the President presents the awards).

In News

What Happened

On January 25, 2025, the Government of India announced the Padma Awards, conferring a total of 139 honours on the eve of Republic Day. Prominent cultural figures were recognized, including Kathak exponent Kumudini Rajnikant Lakhia and folk singer Sharda Sinha (posthumously) who both received the Padma Vibhushan. Additionally, Sattriya dance pioneer Jatin Goswami was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his lifetime contribution to the arts.

Why It Matters

This state recognition brings national spotlight to Indian classical and regional folk traditions, encouraging their preservation for future generations. It underscores India's cultural soft power by officially celebrating regional linguistic and artistic diversity at the highest civilian level.

Background

History & Context

The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954 to recognize exceptional achievements in various fields, including art, public affairs, and science. The awards are conferred on the recommendations made by the Padma Awards Committee, which is constituted by the Prime Minister of India every year. The nomination process was opened to the general public in 2016 to create a 'People's Padma', shifting the focus from elite recognition to honoring grassroots achievers and traditional preservers.

What Changed

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BEFORE: Recognition for regional folk music like Maithili and Bhojpuri was often limited to state-level awards. NOW: Sharda Sinha's posthumous Padma Vibhushan elevates regional linguistic traditions to the highest national cultural platforms.
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BEFORE: Sattriya dance historically lacked the widespread institutional recognition enjoyed by older classical forms like Bharatanatyam. NOW: Honouring Jatin Goswami with the Padma Bhushan cements Sattriya's equal footing and integration into India's mainstream classical arts.
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BEFORE: The Padma selection process was highly opaque and heavily reliant on ministerial or bureaucratic recommendations. NOW: The transition to the online Rashtriya Puraskar Portal allows any citizen to nominate unsung cultural heroes transparently.

Prelims Angle

NCERT Connection

Class 11 Fine Arts Chapter 7 discusses Indian Bronze Sculpture, notably the Chola bronzes of Nataraja which embody the philosophical and rhythmic foundations of Indian classical dance. This ancient philosophical foundation is actively preserved today when the state patronizes art forms like Kathak and Sattriya, continuing the historical legacy of royal and state patronage of the arts.

Practice Questions

Q1

Correct Statement(s)

Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the art forms and awards highlighted in the Padma Awards 2025?

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