Jaipur, Jan. 26 -- Rajasthan folk singer Begum Batool paid her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and the government for conferring her with the Padma Shri award on the eve of 76th Republic Day.

On Saturday, the government announced the Padma Awards 2025, conferring the highest civilian honours to 139 people, including seven Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri.

Begum Batool, a renowned folk singer from Jaipur, was elated upon receiving the prestigious recognition. She emphasised that the Padma Shri would help preserve traditional music, especially as such art forms face the threat of extinction.

In conversation with ANI, Begum said, "Namaskar to the Central government and Prime Minister...