Bharat Ratna: India, a nation rich in history and diversity, has a unique way of honoring its distinguished citizens through awards. Among these prestigious accolades, the Bharat Ratna stands out as the highest civilian award, a symbol of exceptional service in various fields. Let’s delve into 11 fascinating facts about this revered honor.
1. Inception and Significance:
The Bharat Ratna was instituted on January 2, 1954, making it the oldest civilian award in India. Its name translates to “Jewel of India” in English, reflecting the essence of recognizing individuals who have shone brightly in their contributions to society.
2. Recognition Across Fields:
Unlike some awards that are specific to certain domains, the Bharat Ratna is open to individuals from all walks of life. Whether it’s art, science, literature, public service, or any other field, the award honors those who have left an indelible mark on the nation.
3. Limit on Recipients:
Initially, there was no specific limit on the number of Bharat Ratna awardees. However, in 2011, the government revised the criteria, restricting the annual conferment to a maximum of three individuals.
4. Posthumous Awards:
The Bharat Ratna can be awarded posthumously, recognizing the contributions of individuals who have left an enduring legacy even after their demise. This provision ensures that their impact on society is duly acknowledged.
5. Non-Citizen Awardees:
The award is not limited to Indian citizens. Foreign nationals who have made exceptional contributions to the country can also be conferred with the Bharat Ratna.
6. Artistic Recognition:
The field of arts, including music, dance, and literature, has seen its fair share of Bharat Ratna recipients. Eminent personalities such as Lata Mangeshkar, Satyajit Ray, and Ravi Shankar have been honored for their exceptional contributions to Indian culture.
7. Sporting Achievements:
The Bharat Ratna has also graced the sports arena. Sachin Tendulkar, one of the greatest cricketers in history, became the first sportsperson to receive this honor in 2014, highlighting the nation’s reverence for its sporting icons.
8. Scientific Excellence:
The scientific community has not been overlooked. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a renowned scientist and the 11th President of India, was honored with the Bharat Ratna in 1997 for his significant contributions to the field of space research.
9. Civil Rights Advocacy:
The award has been conferred upon individuals who have dedicated their lives to championing civil rights and social justice. Nanaji Deshmukh, a social activist and politician, was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2019 for his tireless efforts in rural development.
10. Controversies and Criticisms:
Like any prestigious award, the Bharat Ratna has not been immune to controversies. Over the years, there have been debates and criticisms surrounding the selection process, with some arguing that certain deserving individuals were overlooked.
11. Symbolic Design:
The Bharat Ratna medallion is a symbol of national pride. It features an image of the Sun, flanked by two lotuses, and the words "Bharat Ratna" inscribed in Devanagari script. The design encapsulates the spirit of the award, signifying brilliance and purity.
In conclusion, the Bharat Ratna is more than just a medal; it is a testament to the diversity and excellence that characterize India. Through recognizing individuals from various fields, the award continues to play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the nation’s progress and development. As new chapters unfold, the Bharat Ratna will undoubtedly continue to be a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
WRITTEN BY ALEX