In a heartfelt ceremony held on September 28 in Indore, playback singer Sonu Nigam was felicitated with the National Lata Mangeshkar Award 2025, coinciding with what would have been Lata Ji’s 96th birth anniversary.

The award was presented by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav at Lata Mangeshkar’s birthplace, as part of festivities organised by the state’s culture department and Indore district administration.  The honour recognised Sonu Nigam’s exceptional contributions to light music over decades.

During his acceptance speech, a visibly emotional Nigam reflected on the significance of the moment. He described Lata Mangeshkar not just as an inspiration but “a living tradition of music” and expressed gratitude for being chosen to receive the award on a stage where, three decades earlier, he had performed.