The Bharat Ratna, instituted in 1954, is a prestigious award recognizing exceptional contributions in various fields. While 48 individuals have been honoured, only five are women, each leaving an indelible mark on Indian history.
List of 5 Women Bharat Ratna Awardees Till 2024
| Name | Year | State Name |
|---|---|---|
| Indira Gandhi | 1971 | Uttar Pradesh |
| Mother Teresa | 1980 | West Bengal (Born in Skopje, now North Macedonia) |
| Aruna Asaf Ali | 1997 | West Bengal |
| M.S. Subbulakshmi | 1998 | Tamil Nadu |
| Lata Mangeshkar | 2001 | Maharashtra |
✅ Also Read: Notable Recipients of Bharat Ratna Award Key Points: VVI for Exam
Indira Gandhi
- Indira Gandhi, India’s first and only female Prime Minister, received the Bharat Ratna in 1972.
- Born into the Nehru family, she became President of the Congress party in 1959, playing a crucial role in India’s political landscape.
- In 1971, she aided Bangladesh in its liberation, earning her the esteemed award.
Mother Teresa
- Mother Teresa was recognized for her selfless work and was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1980.
- Originating from Macedonia, she founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950, offering care to the neglected and ill.
- Her international religious family continues to serve the less privileged globally.
Aruna Asaf Ali
- Aruna Asaf Ali, an independence activist, posthumously received the Bharat Ratna in 1997.
- Known for hoisting the Indian flag during the Quit India Movement in 1942, she faced imprisonment for protesting mistreatment in Tihar Jail.
- Her contributions extended to politics, where she became the first Mayor of Delhi.
M. S. Subbulakshmi
- In 1998, MS Subbulakshmi became the first musician to be honoured with the Bharat Ratna.
- Hailing from a musical family in Tamil Nadu, she showcased her talent at a young age.
- Her international performances at Carnegie Hall and Royal Albert Hall helped popularize Carnatic music globally.
Lata Mangeshkar
- Renowned playback singer Lata Mangeshkar was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2001.
- With a career of over 70 years, she recorded thousands of songs in multiple languages.
- From her debut in 1942 to her recent tribute to Indian soldiers, Lata Mangeshkar remains an icon in music.
✅ Read Also: Bharat Ratna Award Winners List 2024 with Key Details
Conclusion
Through their distinct contributions, these five exceptional women have left an indomitable legacy in Indian history. The Bharat Ratna recognizes their achievements and serves as a testament to women’s diverse and impactful roles in shaping the nation.
Explore More topics related to Bharat Ratna:
