MUMBAI: Veteran Bollywood Playback singer and National Award winner Udit Narayan becomes the latest artist to be awarded the 'Padma Bhushan' - the third highest civilian award. The 60-year-old was awarded his first Padma award, the Padma Shree in 2009 by the government of India.

Speaking with radioandmusic.com about the honour, Narayan said, "There cannot be a happier moment for me. I have sung in more than 35 languages for over 35 years. I feel extremely proud and honoured."

Narayan dedicates his award to the fans and the government of India for the recognition and the love showered upon him since 1980. "I remember the moment when I sang with Mohammad Rafi, and the journey since then has been absolutely great. I would like to thank my fans and the government who has bestowed upon me such huge honour."

Narayan was awarded the Padma Shree in 2009 and expressed his surprise that the government and people would consider him for yet another Padma award. Remembering his early struggle and background, a jubilant Narayan expressed, "For the son of a farmer, the journey was obviously difficult. The love has never gone, but these awards make the journey even much better. Post-receiving Padma Shree, I did not expect that seven years down the line, I'd be honoured with another prestigious award."

Former CAG Vinod Rai and Bollywood actor Anupam Kher were among the other recipients of the Padma Bhushan award.