Vyjayanthimala Bali is a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer and former Hindi film actress, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of classical dance in Indian cinema. In 2024, she was conferred the Padma Vibhushan for her exceptional contribution to the field of art, particularly in acting and dance. (Credits: Instagram)
M. Fathima Beevi was the first woman to be appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court of India in 1989, marking a historic milestone in the Indian judiciary. She was posthumously honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2024 for her contributions to public affairs and law. (Credits: Supreme Court of India)
Usha Uthup is a celebrated Indian playback singer known for her distinctive voice and contributions to Hindi film music over several decades. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2024 for her outstanding contribution to the field of art, particularly in vocal music. (Credits: Instagram)
Rezwana Choudhury Bannya is one of the most prominent exponents of Rabindra Sangeet, known for her efforts in preserving and popularising the musical works of Rabindranath Tagore across Bangladesh and internationally. She founded Sangeet Bhavana, which has played a significant role in training students in Tagore’s music tradition. In recognition of her contributions to art and culture, she was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2024. (Credits: Instagram)
Naseem Bano is a skilled artisan from Lucknow known for her work in traditional Chikankari embroidery, a craft deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh. She was awarded the Padma Shri in 2024 for her contribution to the field of art, particularly in preserving and promoting textile craftsmanship. (Credits: Instagram)
Parbati Barua is a noted wildlife conservationist from Assam, widely recognised for her work in the field of elephant welfare and conservation. She has been actively involved in training and managing elephants using traditional knowledge, while also promoting humane treatment and coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Belonging to the family of legendary elephant catcher Prakritish Barua, she has carried forward a unique legacy associated with elephant conservation in the region. In recognition of her contribution to social work and animal welfare, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 2024. (Credits: Instagram)
Shaikha Ali Jaber Al-Sabah is a yoga practitioner and wellness advocate from Kuwait, known for promoting yoga and holistic well-being in the region. She has contributed to spreading awareness about the benefits of yoga as a lifestyle practice for physical and mental health.
In recognition of her contribution to the field of yoga, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 2025. (Credits: X)
Sadhvi Ritambhara is a Hindu spiritual leader and social worker known for her work in the field of women and child welfare. She founded Vatsalya Gram, which provides care, education, and shelter to orphaned children and destitute women.
In recognition of her contributions to social work, particularly in women and child development, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2025. (Credits: Instagram)
Shobana Chandrakumar is a renowned Bharatanatyam exponent and film actress, known for her contributions to classical dance and Indian cinema. She is the founder of Kalarpana, through which she has trained numerous students and promoted Bharatanatyam globally.
In recognition of her achievements in the field of art, particularly classical dance, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2025. (Credits: Instagram)
Jumde Yomgam Gamlin is a social worker known for her efforts in de-addiction and community welfare in Arunachal Pradesh. She has been actively involved in helping individuals overcome substance abuse and promoting awareness about rehabilitation and healthy living.
Through her grassroots initiatives, she has contributed to improving lives and strengthening communities in the region. In recognition of her service in social work, particularly in de-addiction, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 2025. (Credits: Instagram)
