"I am well and progressing positively": Alka Yagnik reassures fans after viral wheelchair appearance at Padma Awards
Mumbai, June 25
Veteran singer Alka Yagnik has reassured fans about her health after a video of her in a wheelchair at the Padma Awards ceremony sparked concern online.
Addressing the speculation, the celebrated singer, in an Instagram post, clarified that she is recovering well and had only requested wheelchair assistance due to fatigue after a long day of engagements at the prestigious event.
"I have seen the concern surrounding a video from the ceremony and would like to assure everyone that I am well and progressing positively in my recovery. After a long and memorable day at the Padma facilitation, I was simply fatigued and requested a wheelchair while leaving," Alka Yagnik wrote in her statement.
Thanking fans for their love, prayers and support, Yagnik urged everyone not to worry, saying she is feeling much better. She also thanked the Indian government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and the Home Ministry for the honour.
"Please do not worry. I am feeling much better and remain deeply grateful for the prayers and support that continue to strengthen me. My heartfelt thanks to the Hon'ble President of India, the Hon'ble Prime Minister, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Government of India for this tremendous honour. Let us celebrate this joyous occasion together," she said.
This came after Alka Yagnik, in a previous post, opened up about her health struggles.
She revealed that she had largely stayed away from the public eye over the past two years due to ongoing health issues, acknowledging the support and prayers she received during this difficult period.
"For the last two years, I have stayed away from the spotlight, from public appearances, and from sharing much of my journey. Many of you knew I am going through difficult health and through it all, your love, prayers, messages, and unwavering support have stayed with me every step of the way," she wrote.
Marking a rare public appearance, the 'Agar Tum Saath Ho' singer said she accepted the Padma Bhushan "with a heart full of gratitude," describing it as deeply humbling.
During the ceremony, Yagnik required the support of on-site security and event staff to walk, drawing public attention and concern
President Murmu conferred the Padma Awards 2026 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, the media should just let her be. She's been unwell for two years and still accepted the honour gracefully. Instead of worrying everyone, why not celebrate her Padma Bhushan? These are the moments we should focus on, not wheelchair gossip.
I remember hearing 'Agar Tum Saath Ho' on repeat during college. Her voice is timeless. So glad she clarified it's just fatigue, but let's also acknowledge how tough it must be to battle health issues in the public eye. Sending lots of love and prayers 🌸🙏
Good to hear she's recovering well. But I wonder – why did it take a viral video for her to address her health? She stayed away for two years quietly, and now people are reacting. Anyway, best wishes for her full recovery. Hope she comes back to sing for us again!
Respect to her for attending despite everything. The Padma Bhushan is well-deserved – she's the voice of our childhoods. But I also think the event management could have been more discreet. Making her walk with support while cameras were everywhere seems avoidable. Jai ho Alka ji! 🏆✨
All these armchair critics need to chill. The woman has given us decades of melodies, and now she's recovering. If she says she's fine, then she's fine. Let's stop speculating and start celebrating her legacy. 'Taal se taal mila' – always a classic ❤️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.