The recent viral video showing legendary Indian playback singer Alka Yagnik in a wheelchair has caused widespread concern among her fans. The video was recorded in late June 2026 as she was leaving the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
Here is the factual background of the video and the official health update provided by the singer:
The Padma Bhushan Ceremony
On June 23, 2026, Alka Yagnik made a rare public appearance to receive the Padma Bhushan—India’s third-highest civilian honor—from President Droupadi Murmu.
During the event, she walked to the stage with some assistance to accept her award. However, a separate video captured her leaving the venue later that day in a wheelchair, appearing visibly frail and being assisted by an attendant. Because she has largely stayed out of the public eye for the past two years, the footage quickly went viral, prompting thousands of fans to express worry and pray for her health on social media.
Alka Yagnik’s Official Clarification
To stop the growing speculation, Yagnik released an official statement on her Instagram account directly addressing the wheelchair footage.
She reassured her fans that there was no sudden medical emergency. She explained that she used the wheelchair simply because she was exhausted after a grueling schedule.
“I have seen the concern surrounding a video from the ceremony and would like to assure everyone that I am well and progressing positively in my recovery. After a long and memorable day at the Padma felicitation, I was simply fatigued and requested a wheelchair while leaving. Please do not worry. I feel much better…”
Background: Her Health Journey
The intense public reaction to the video stems from the fact that Alka Yagnik has been dealing with significant health struggles.
About two years prior, she was diagnosed with a rare sensory neural hearing loss (SNHL) following a viral infection. This condition forced her to step away from recording and public appearances. In her recent posts, she acknowledged her difficult health journey but expressed deep gratitude to her fans, stating that she is “slowly finding her way back” and remains deeply humbled by the continued support of her listeners.

