Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik was honored with the Padma Bhushan on June 23. The singer who struggled with his health was diagnosed with hearing loss in 2024. He wrote an emotional letter while receiving the prestigious civilian award from the President Dropadi Murmu during the second investiture ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.Alka took to Instagram to share her gratitude to fans and well-wishers. In her post, she also opened up about her ongoing health struggles, revealing details about the challenges she faced over the past two years.Reflecting on her loss from public life, Alka wrote, “For the past two years, I have stayed away from the spotlight, from public appearances, and from sharing much of my journey. Many of you know that I have been going through difficult health issues, and through it all, your love, prayers, messages, and unwavering support have kept me going every step of the way.”He added, “Today, when I come out to receive one of the highest civilian honors of the country – the prestigious Padma Bhushan, I do it with a heart full of gratitude. This honor is very humbling, and even though my name is on it, it belongs to every listener who has accepted my voice in their lives, carried my songs across generations, and stood up to challenges especially challenges. It marks not only the a recognition of my work, but a reminder of the strength that comes from love, hope, and strength that I slowly found my way back, and I want to be here today – not only for myself, but for each of you who have been part of this journey. Her emotional note drew an outpouring of love from members of the music and film industries, who congratulated her on the achievement and wished her a speedy recovery.Playback singer: Kumar Sanuwhere Alka has given many chart-topping songs over the years, commented, “Well done Alka! God bless you.” Sanu and Alka are one of the most iconic singing duos who have given the industry many memorable songs. Singer: Shaan: also celebrated the honor, writing, “Most deserving, Alka Ji!!! You are our pride and joy!!! And nothing pleases your fans more than you finding your health and well-being and finding the confidence and motivation to come back to delight us with your voice as much as you can!!”Actress and singer Ila Arun expressed her admiration, writing, “So proud of you.” Meanwhile, Bhumi Pednekar, Veer Pahariya and singer Aditi Singh Sharma shared congratulatory reactions through emojis. Singer Akriti Kakkar added, “No one deserves it more than you. Our undisputed queen – praying for your smiles and good health always.”Singer Sudesh Bhosle also extended his wishes, commenting, “Heartiest congratulations, Alkaji. God bless you.”For those who don’t know, Alka’s health became a matter of public concern last year when she revealed that she had been diagnosed with a rare hearing disorder. In June 2024, the singer revealed that he suddenly lost his hearing after getting off a flight, causing fans to be shocked and worried about his condition.Despite her health challenges, Alka Yagnik continues to be one of the most iconic voices in Indian music. His popularity goes beyond traditional media, with the singer gaining a place in: Guinness World Records after recording 17 billion streams on YouTube in 2021 and 16.6 billion streams in 2020. Even in 2026, he remains the most streamed weekly music artist on the platform.Over the course of her remarkable career, Alka has received many accolades, including two National Film Awards and now a Padma Bhushan cementing her legacy as one of the most popular playback singers in the history of Indian cinema.