Refusal of India’s Highest Honors: The Padma Awards and Bharat Ratna
India’s highest honors, the Padma Awards and Bharat Ratna, are prestigious accolades often bestowed upon individuals for their contributions in various fields. However, not everyone accepts these accolades, as some use the refusal to make political statements, express personal beliefs, and highlight issues they deem more critical than individual recognition.
Notable Refusals
Several individuals have refused the Padma Awards or the Bharat Ratna over the years for various reasons. These refusals often stem from personal beliefs, political statements, or a desire to highlight issues they feel are more important than recognition. Here, we explore some notable refusals:
Baba Saheb Ambedkar
He declined the Bharat Ratna in 1952 stating that he did not believe in titles. This decision was a clear reflection of his disdain for the hierarchy and formalism associated with such honors.
Lata Mangeshkar
While Lata Mangeshkar did not formally refuse the Padma Bhushan, she expressed discomfort with receiving awards. She often stated that her work itself was sufficient reward. This sentiment reflects a broader idea that genuine accomplishment should be its own reward.
K. M. Munshi
The prominent writer and politician returned his Padma Bhushan award in 1954 in protest against the government's policies. This was a clear political statement against the government's stance, showcasing how these honors can be a platform for expressing dissent.
Anna Hazare
The social activist declined the Padma Bhushan in 2016 citing that he did not want to accept any awards while corruption was still prevalent in the country. This refusal highlights the activists' focus on pressing national issues rather than personal accolades.
Vikram Sarabhai
The renowned scientist and space pioneer was offered the Padma Bhushan but chose to decline it. He felt that awards were not necessary for his work, emphasizing that his contributions were validated by his professional achievements.
Modern Context: S. Janaki
One more recent example is S. Janaki, a great playback singer, who refused the Padma Bhushan in 2013. She pointed out that it was too little and that the selection committee was biased. Janaki's refusal has brought attention to the selective nature of award selections and the bias that can influence them.
Contemporary Comparisons
Janaki's refusal is even more poignant given that one of her contemporaries received the Bharat Ratna in the same year. The Padma Vibhushan, a lower honor, was given to her in 2013, further highlighting the perceived bias in the selection process.
Other Recipients Who Refused Lower Awards
Several recipients have also refused the lower awards for various reasons. For example, Palagummi Sainath, a well-known journalist, declined the Padma Shri, feeling that journalists should not accept government awards. Sithara Devi similarly felt that Padma Bhushan was too low for her stature, especially considering that one of her rivals was given the Padma Vibhushan.
Conclusion
The refusals of the Padma Awards and Bharat Ratna reflect a complex interplay of personal beliefs, political stances, and a broader societal critique. These refusals serve as a reminder that honors and recognition can be powerful tools for expressing dissent and highlighting important issues.