Rezwana Choudhury Bannya honored with India’s Padma Shri

DE Entertainment Desk
Renowned Rabindra Sangeet artist, Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, has been named as one of the distinguished recipients of India’s prestigious Padma Shri award.
The announcement was made by the Indian government on Thursday, adding another feather to the accomplished Bangladeshi singer’s illustrious career.
The Padma awards, among the highest civilian honors in India, are bestowed in three categories – Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
Recognizing exceptional contributions in various fields such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service, these awards symbolize distinction and honor.
Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, celebrated for her mastery in Rabindra Sangeet, received the Padma Shri for her distinguished service in the field of art.
This recognition places her among the elite individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their respective domains.
The Padma awards, announced annually on India’s Republic Day, January 26, are conferred by the Indian president at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, typically in March or April.
For the year 2024, the president has approved the conferment of 132 Padma awards, signifying the nation’s appreciation for exceptional service across diverse fields.
Bannya’s inclusion in the list of Padma Shri awardees underscores not only her personal achievements but also the global recognition of Bangladeshi talent in the realm of arts and culture.
Previously honored by the Bangladesh government with an Independence Award in 2016, Bannya has been a trailblazer in promoting Rabindranath Tagore’s music.
In 2022, the government launched a dedicated website preserving 5,000 songs by Bannya, complemented by a comprehensive biography and photographs.
This initiative solidified her status as the first Rabindra Sangeet singer to receive such an esteemed honor in Bangladesh.
Rezwana Choudhury Bannya’s Padma Shri award serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication to the art of Rabindra Sangeet and her significant role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage across borders.