Padma Shri Awards 2020: Awardees express their gratitude

Bollywood celebrities Kangana Ranaut, Karan Johar, Adnan Sami and Ekta Kapoor have recently been honoured with the Padma Shri for their contributions in the field of performing arts.

Kangana Ranaut thanked the Indian government for the exemplary honour bestowed upon her. 

She said: “I’m humbled and honoured. I am grateful to the Indian government, my fans and friends. I thank my country for this recognition, and I dedicate this to every woman who dares to dream. To every daughter, to every mother, and to the dreams of women who will shape the future of our country.”

Karan Johar shared a heartfelt post on social media as well. He said: “It’s not very often that I’m at a loss for words, but this is one such occasion. Such an honour to receive one of the highest civilian awards in the country! I know my father would be proud and I wish he was here to share this moment with me.”

Ekta Kapoor too took to her social media handles to thank the government and her fans. 

Kapoor wrote, “My foray into the industry started when I was just 17. I constantly heard I was too young, too raw and it was too soon to make things happen. Through the years, I have realized it is never too soon to live out your dreams. Today, as I am conferred with the 4th highest civilian honour,  I’m humbled. I hope to continue breaking boundaries, to continue giving young talent a chance and to strive to give back to the country all the love that’s come my way.”

Adnan Sami took to his Twitter handle and wrote, “The greatest moment for any artiste is to be appreciated and recognized by his or her government. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for being honoured with the ‘Padma Shri’ by the Government of India. It has been a 34 years musical journey."

Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in the Republic of India, is awarded by the government of India every year on India's Republic Day.