On June 23, veteran singer Alka Yagnik was honored with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards, by President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The singer has performed some of the most iconic songs in Indian cinema and for many years has left a huge mark in the hearts of the audience.
For this reason, fans were really celebrating this recognition. Alka made a rare appearance to receive the award, and through her Instagram post, she highlighted the serious health condition that kept her away from public life in recent years.In a heartfelt message shared on social media, the singer revealed that she has been largely out of the spotlight for nearly two years as she continues to deal with ongoing health challenges.
She also expressed her gratitude to fans and well-wishers whose prayers, messages and support helped her through this difficult time.Alka was suffering from sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), a rare hearing disorder which she had previously revealed was caused by a viral attack.SNHL is the most common form of permanent hearing loss. Medical experts explain that the condition develops when the sensitive structures of the inner ear are damaged, especially the small hair cells inside the cochlea, or the auditory nerve responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain.
These microscopic hair cells are essential for hearing. Unlike many other cells in the body, they generally do not regenerate once they are damaged, which is why the hearing loss associated with SNHL is often permanent. The condition can affect one or both ears and may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly.According to medical information provided by the Cleveland Clinic, sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors.
Some people are born with this condition due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth, while others develop it later in life due to viral infections, diseases, head trauma, long-term exposure to loud noise, or age-related degeneration.In Alka Yagnik’s case, the disorder was reportedly caused by a viral attack that affected her auditory system, leading to major hearing complications.Despite her health struggles, the singer’s contribution to Indian music remains unparalleled. The Padma Bhushan tribute is another recognition of her extraordinary legacy, built over decades of unforgettable performances and timeless songs that continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
