Ricky Kej: A Harmonious Blend of Music and Environmental Advocacy

In 2025, the esteemed Grammy-winning music composer and environmental advocate, Ricky Kej, received the prestigious Padma Shri award from the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the arts. As a three-time Grammy Award winner and four-time nominee, Kej expressed heartfelt gratitude for this honor from his homeland.

Padma Shri: A Career-Long Validation

Upon receiving the Padma Shri, Ricky Kej shared the profound significance of this accolade compared to his previous awards. “While I have won three Grammy Awards and various other accolades for specific projects, the Padma Shri feels like a validation of my entire career and everything I have accomplished so far. It is incredibly special to be recognized by my own country. There are no words to describe how meaningful this is,” he remarked.

Kej emphasized that his music transcends mainstream trends, stating, “I create music from the heart, only when I feel inspired.” He commended the Padma Awards for evolving into “the people’s Padma,” focusing on grassroots impact and genuine artistry rather than mere popularity or viral success.

Global Recognition and Environmental Advocacy

Beyond his musical accolades, Ricky Kej boasts a significant international presence, having performed in over 35 countries, including prestigious venues like the United Nations headquarters in New York and Geneva. In October 2023, he was appointed as a UN Goodwill Ambassador (UNCCD) during the United Nations General Assembly by then-President Csaba Körösi, highlighting his unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy.

Overview of the 2025 Padma Awards

The Padma Awards stand as one of India’s highest civilian honors, celebrating individuals for their exceptional work across various fields. In 2025, a total of 139 individuals were honored, including a pair who shared an award. The recipients comprised 7 Padma Vibhushan awardees, 19 Padma Bhushan recipients, and 113 Padma Shri honorees. Notably, thirteen of these awards were conferred posthumously.

Among the posthumous Padma Vibhushan recipients was M.T. Vasudevan Nair, the celebrated Malayalam writer, recognized for his immense contributions to literature and education. His novel Naalukettu is revered as a classic in Malayalam literature. Additionally, Sharda Sinha, the legendary folk singer from Bihar, known for her Chhath festival songs, was honored posthumously. She passed away at the age of 72 on November 5, 2024. Pankaj Udhas, the esteemed ghazal and playback singer, who died on February 26, 2024, at 72, also received the Padma Vibhushan for his lasting impact on music.

As business leaders in the film and television entertainment industry, recognizing the intersection of art and advocacy, as exemplified by Ricky Kej, can inspire innovative storytelling and impactful projects that resonate with audiences globally.

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Ricky Kej, Droupadi Murmu, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, Sharda Sinha, Pankaj Udhas

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