June 23, senior singer Alka Yagnik won PadmasambhavaIt is one of India’s highest civilian awards and is presented by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The singer has sung some of the most iconic songs of Hindi cinema and has left a huge mark on the hearts of audiences over the years. That’s why fans are literally celebrating this recognition. Alka made a rare appearance to accept the award, and her Instagram posts also revealed a serious health condition that has 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 get through this difficult time.Alka has been battling sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), a rare hearing disorder that she previously revealed was triggered by a viral attack.SNHL is considered the most common permanent hearing impairment. Medical experts explain that the condition occurs when the delicate structures of the inner ear, particularly the tiny hair cells located in the cochlea, or the auditory nerve responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain, are damaged.These tiny hair cells are crucial for hearing. Unlike many other cells in the body, they typically do not regenerate once damaged, which is why hearing loss associated with SNHL is usually permanent. This condition may affect one or both ears and may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly.Sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, according to medical information from the Cleveland Clinic. Some people are born with the condition due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth, while others develop it later in life due to viral infection, illness, head trauma, long-term exposure to noise, or age-related degeneration.In Alka Yagnik’s case, the disease was reportedly caused by a viral attack that affected her auditory system, causing severe hearing complications.Despite her failing health, the singer’s contribution to Indian music remains unparalleled. The Padma Shri honor is yet another recognition of her extraordinary legacy, whose decades of unforgettable performances and timeless songs continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
