India: 20 Padma award winning common Indians you must know about

India’s Padma award winners 2017 have some awe inspiring names with jaw dropping contribution to society. Their efforts will make our materialism filled world look a life of the unworthy. A 91 year old gynaecologist who has been delivering babies free for 68yrs, a 59 year old farmer who single handedly turned a drought hit region, a 52 year old tea garden worker who converted his bike into a 24*7 emergency ambulance and many more such bravehearts form the list of 2017 Padma award winners.

The total list (shortest in recent times) comprises of 7 Padma Vibhushan, 7 Padma Bhushan and 75 Padma Shri Awardees. 19 of the awardees are women and the list also includes 5 persons from the category of foreigners, NRIs, PIOs and 6 Posthumous awardees. The awards are given in various disciplines and fields of activities like art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering. ‘Padma Vibhushan’ is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; ‘Padma Bhushan’ for distinguished service of high order; and ‘Padma Shri’ for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government has also honoured legendary members of opposition parties – a rare occurrence. Thanks to my Facebook friends Dev Parihar and Ajay Sharma – the only two from my friends list to post about the commoners – here’s the list of the 20 unknown mega-achievers .. Who really are gods on earth in disguise of proud common Indians.

1. Shekhar Naik