Sandhya Mukherjee refused the Padma Shri, the highest civilian award in India. Here is everything you need to know about her and the reason behind rejecting the award.

Saoli Mitra was born in 1948 in West Bengal to Sombhu Mitra and Tripti Mitra who were also great theatre personalities. She was an only child and an actor, director, and playwriter.

People like us who toiled for it, the sacrifice of the people we saw, we experienced, this woman says this country got freedom in alms, I became very angry – Lilaba Chitale

50 Years have passed and I have lived quite a life, from running an idli vada shop to heading the panchayat, to becoming an organic farmer and receiving the Padma Shri. I am still a perfectionist & I like doing my work myself.

Rahibai Soma Popere, fondly called beej mata or seed mother, has been conferred with Padma Shri award this year for her contribution in the field of agriculture.

She was present at the ceremony dressed in traditional attire walking barefoot. She has been honoured for her immense contribution to the protection of environment.

Veteran actor Shashikala Om Prakash Saigal passed away at the age of 88. The cause of her demise is not yet known.

“I am very happy with the honour. I have faced many struggles and even threats to my life for the work I have been doing… The recognition is the blessing of those who have supported us,” said Birubala Rabha.

For Padma Shri Manjamma Jogati, after decades of emotional and cultural hardship, the Padma Shri is a big acknowledgement. 

Usha Chaumar’s message to all the girls and women out there is to study well, work hard and marry only after becoming self-reliant and financially independent.