Playback singer Alka Yagnik has opened up about her ongoing health challenges after receiving the Padma Bhushan, saying she has been dealing with a hearing disorder and difficult health issues for the past two years.

The singer accepted the country’s third-highest civilian honour from President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi on June 23. Following the ceremony, Yagnik shared a note expressing gratitude to her fans and the government, while also providing an update on her recovery journey.

Singer Reflects on Two Years Away From Public Life

In her message, Yagnik said she had largely remained away from public appearances and the spotlight because of her health condition.

“For the last two years, I have stayed away from the spotlight, from public appearances, and from sharing much of my journey. Many of you knew I am going through difficult health and, through it all, your love, prayers, messages, and unwavering support have stayed with me every step of the way,” she wrote.

Concern about the singer’s health had grown after a video from the Padma Bhushan ceremony showed her being assisted onto the stage.

Yagnik said the recognition came at a significant point in her life, as she is gradually returning to public engagements after a prolonged period of recovery.

‘A Heart Full of Gratitude’

Describing the honour as a deeply emotional moment, Yagnik said receiving the Padma Bhushan filled her with gratitude.

“Today, as I stepped out to receive one of highest civilian honours in the country – the distinguished Padma Bhushan, I did so with a heart full of gratitude. This honour is deeply humbling,” she wrote.

She added that the award belonged not only to her but also to generations of listeners who had embraced her music throughout her career.

The singer said the recognition represented more than a professional achievement and served as a reminder of the strength she had drawn from public support during a difficult period.

“This moment feels especially meaningful because it marks not just a recognition of my work, but a reminder of the strength that comes from love, hope, and resilience,” she wrote.

Return to Public Life and Message of Thanks

Yagnik said her return to public life has been gradual, but she wanted to attend the ceremony to acknowledge the people who had supported her throughout her career.

“I am slowly finding my way back, and I wanted to be here today – not only for myself, but for each and every one of you who have been a part of this journey,” she said.

She also expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Government of India for conferring the honour.

Accepting the award with what she described as “immense humility and respect”, Yagnik said the moment felt like receiving the affection and prayers of millions of people who had followed her musical journey.

“Today, I didn’t just accept an award – I felt the love of millions who have been a part of my journey,” she wrote, signing off with the words, “Thank you Love, Alka.”

Battling Hearing Loss

Yagnik first revealed in 2024 that she had been diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss triggered by a sudden viral attack.

In an earlier interview with NDTV, she said she had not fully recovered from the condition and continued to face challenges in her professional life.

“Composers approach me now and then. But I am not able to do it,” she had said.

One of India’s most celebrated playback singers, Yagnik has lent her voice to numerous popular songs across decades, including Tip Tip Barsa Paani from Mohra, Ae Mere Humsafar from Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Chaand Chupa Baadal Mein from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Agar Tum Saath Ho from Tamasha.

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