This years Padma Awards draw controversy, as the recipient list includes figures from the Ram Mandir movement and an individual accused of misogyny.
As the government announced the 2025 Padma Awards on the eve of Republic Day, one of Indias Highest civilian awards, the recipients list also garnered controversy as it included Nandamuri Balakrishna and Sadhvi Ritambhara.
Tollywood veteran and TDP MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, popularly known as Balayya has been honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Telugu cinema. However, his remarkable career has also been overshadowed by several controversies.
While highly successful, Balakrishnas career in Telugu cinema has been marred by numerous controversies, including aggressive behavior and misogynistic remarks. Most recently, a viral video showed him shoving actor Anjali at a public event, sparking criticism. In 2016, he made lewd comments about women, leading to a police complaint. His volatile temper has led to several incidents, including slapping fans and colleagues. In 2004, he was involved in a shooting incident with producer Bellamkonda Suresh, though the case was dismissed. These controversies have contributed to a polarizing public image despite his popularity.
Key figures associated with the Ram Temple movement have been honored with Padma Shri, Indias second-highest civilian award, including Sadhvi Ritambhara, founder of the VHPs womens wing, Durga Vahini. Known for her fiery and communally charged speeches during the 1989-90 campaign, Ritambharas recorded addresses were widely played in public as part of the VHPs campaign. Her influence extended beyond the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, as she later directed her rhetoric against Christians, particularly in 1995, following the murder of a nun, Rani Maria, in Madhya Pradesh.
Chandrakant Sompura, the temple’s chief architect, was honored in architecture, while Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, who determined the auspicious mahurat for its consecration, was recognized in literature.
The Padma Awards, which include Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, recognize exceptional public service in various fields. This year, 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards were given. Based on recommendations from the Padma Awards Committee, the awards are presented at a ceremonial function at Rashtrapati Bhawan, usually in March or April.
