Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik was among the distinguished personalities honoured with the Padma Bhushan at the Padma Awards 2026 ceremony held in New Delhi on June 23. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu in recognition of her remarkable contribution to Indian music and decades of unforgettable playback singing.
While the occasion marked a proud milestone in her illustrious career, a video from the ceremony has become the subject of widespread discussion online. The clip showed Alka appearing physically frail as she made her way towards the stage, with a female volunteer assisting her during the walk.
Viral Ceremony Footage Leaves Social Media Emotional
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting fans to express concern over the singer's well-being. As she proceeded down the aisle, Alka was seen receiving support from a volunteer.
During the ceremony, she also approached Prime Minister Narendra Modi and touched his feet before moving ahead to receive the Padma Bhushan from President Murmu.
🇮🇳 Legendary playback singer Alka Yagnik was conferred with the Padma Bhushan by President Droupadi Murmu.The honor comes amid reports that the celebrated singer is battling hearing loss, a poignant challenge for one of India's most beloved voices. 💔 pic.twitter.com/QiBtvLszXo
— The Eagle Eye (@Theeye_eagle) June 23, 2026
She is Alka Yagnik ❤️-One of India's most celebrated playback singers-Has sung thousands of songs in Hindi and several other Indian languages-Winner of multiple Filmfare Awards and one of the defining voices of Bollywood for over 3 decades-Honoured with the Padma Bhushan… pic.twitter.com/b1YlVlZw8k
— Amit Kumar Sindhi (@AMIT_GUJJU) June 23, 2026
Many viewers were taken aback by her apparent difficulty in walking, with several users describing the footage as heartbreaking.
Health Challenges Continue After Rare Hearing Disorder Diagnosis
For those unfamiliar with her recent health struggles, Alka Yagnik revealed in 2024 that she had been diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss. The condition significantly impacted her professional life and led to her stepping away from public appearances and musical projects.
The hearing disorder has also prevented her from continuing her singing career in the way she once did, keeping her largely away from the spotlight over the past two years.
Fans Flood Social Media With Recovery Wishes
Following the viral circulation of the ceremony video, social media users shared messages of support and concern. One user expressed sadness at seeing the celebrated singer in such a weakened state.
It is truly heartbreaking to see Alka Yagnik in this condition. she has been one of my all time favorite singers.Back in the days of memory cards, I had a 2GB card dedicated entirely to her songs. I pretty much know every single one of her tracks by heart. https://t.co/n6YW5AbSFP
— Abhishek (@abhisheksnandan) June 23, 2026
Another pointed to the viral infection linked to her rare hearing condition, while others said they were heartbroken watching one of India's most beloved voices struggle physically. Across platforms, fans united in wishing the singer a speedy recovery as she continues treatment for her hearing-related condition.
Utmost Infinite Of The Infinite Prayers for Legendary and GOATED ALKA YAGNIK 🇮🇳🐐❣️♾️✨️🙇 Ma'am. And, Hugest Of The Huge Congratulations to Ma'am. I pray for her well-being and that the God help her heal and bless her eternally. https://t.co/yJhkuviEsb
— KRITARTH YADAV (@kritarthy486) June 23, 2026
God bless Alka Yagnik ji, wishing her the best and speedy healing ❤️🩹
— Sam(मोदी भक्त) (@Taxitaxi2436) June 23, 2026
Hey @grok what's wrong with Alka Yagnik? pic.twitter.com/JTcc9rTGxv
— Wren (@wrendom) June 23, 2026
Why Has Alka Yagnik Been Missing From New Projects?
In a previous interview, Alka Yagnik addressed her absence from the music industry. She explained that although composers still reach out to her with opportunities, she has been unable to accept new assignments due to her health challenges.
When she first disclosed her condition in 2024, she attributed it to a sudden viral attack.
Sharing her emotional journey, she wrote, “As I attempt to come to terms with it, please keep me in your prayers.”
A Legacy That Defined Generations of Hindi Film Music
Alka Yagnik remains one of the most influential female playback singers in Indian cinema. Dominating the 1990s and early 2000s with countless chartbusters, she built a legacy that continues to resonate with music lovers across generations.
Her achievements include seven Filmfare Awards for Best Female Playback Singer and two National Awards, cementing her place among India's most celebrated musical voices.