Odisha is basking in pride and celebration as four eminent personalities from the state have been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri Award 2025, one of India's highest civilian honors. The award ceremony took place at the Ganatantra Mandap of Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi, with President Smt. Droupadi Murmu personally presenting the awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Medicine, Literature & Education, and Art. Renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Ashok Kumar Mahapatra was conferred the Padma Shri in the field of Medicine for his tireless service and remarkable contributions to healthcare. Known for his decades of dedication to medical excellence, Dr. Mahapatra has played a transformative role in improving lives through his expertise, especially in neurosurgery. His work has not only benefited Odisha but has made a significant impact on healthcare across India.

A stalwart in the fields of literature and education, Dr. Prativa Satpathy received the Padma Shri for her literary excellence and educational impact. With a career spanning several decades, Dr. Satpathy’s work has enriched Odia literature and inspired countless students and readers. Her commitment to intellectual and cultural development reflects Odisha’s deep-rooted literary heritage. Two of Odisha’s most celebrated artists, Adwaita Charan Gadanayak and Durga Charan Ranbir, were honored with the Padma Shri for their exceptional contributions to the world of Art. Gadanayak, a visionary sculptor and curator, has been instrumental in promoting India’s artistic traditions globally. His sculptures and installations are revered for their depth, craftsmanship, and cultural relevance. Durga Charan Ranbir, another stalwart of Odia art, has received national recognition for his unique and expressive artistic creations. His work has significantly contributed to preserving Odisha’s rich visual heritage and has earned him admiration in the Indian art scene.

The Padma Awards 2025 investiture ceremony saw a total of 4 Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri awards presented. The high-profile event was attended by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and other dignitaries. The recognition of these four personalities from Odisha has triggered widespread joy and celebration across the state. Citizens, institutions, and cultural organizations have expressed their admiration and gratitude for the awardees who have brought honor and global recognition to Odisha. Their achievements underline the diverse talent and cultural richness of Odisha, inspiring a new generation to pursue excellence across various fields. The state’s representation at the national level through the Padma Shri 2025 awards showcases its growing influence and contribution to India's progress in arts, education, and healthcare.