Lucknow is celebrating a moment of pride this Republic Day as three distinguished personalities with strong ties to the city have been announced as Padma Shri award recipients — one of India’s highest civilian honours. The central government released the list of Padma awardees on the eve of Republic Day, recognising individuals from diverse fields for their exceptional service to the nation.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad, a renowned respiratory and tuberculosis specialist, has been honoured with the Padma Shri for his lifelong service in pulmonary care and medical education. A graduate and later Head of the Pulmonary Medicine Department at King George’s Medical University (KGMU), he is widely respected as the founder of the department and a pillar of respiratory medicine in the state.
Over nearly five decades, Dr. Prasad has treated hundreds of thousands of patients, supervised extensive research, introduced advanced techniques such as video bronchoscopy, and helped establish UP’s first sleep lab. His work in advancing tuberculosis and multi-drug-resistant TB care has brought relief to countless families in and beyond Lucknow.
Also honoured with the Padma Shri is Dr. Kewal Krishna Thakral, a distinguished Ayurvedic surgeon and former principal of the Government Ayurvedic College, Tudiyaganj. With a medical journey spanning more than six decades, Dr. Thakral is recognised for his expertise in Shalya-Shalakya (surgical disciplines of Ayurveda) and his commitment to affordable healthcare for all.
Dr. Thakral has contributed significantly to advancing Ayurvedic surgical techniques and has published influential research in the field, making traditional medicine accessible to people from all walks of life.
Joining the list of Padma Shri recipients from Lucknow is Dr. Anil Rastogi, a renowned theatre artist, film actor, and scientist. A former senior scientist at CSIR-CDRI (Central Drug Research Institute), Dr. Rastogi later became one of India’s most respected theatre personalities, with decades of performances across stage, television and film.
Celebrated for his contributions to the performing arts, Dr. Rastogi has acted in over 75 films, numerous television series, and more than a thousand theatre shows. Alongside his artistic work, he has also been involved in social service, bringing smiles and inspiration both on and off the stage.
This recognition of two eminent doctors and a multifaceted artist underscores Lucknow’s rich tradition of excellence — not only in healthcare and science, but also in culture and the arts. As the city rejoices in their achievements, their journeys continue to inspire countless young professionals and creatives across Uttar Pradesh and beyond.