New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind today conferred former president Pranab Mukherjee with the highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, at Rashtapati Bhavan, today (August 8).

On the occasion, the Bharat Ratna was also conferred on singer-musician Bhupen Hazarika (posthumously). Another eminent person to receive the Bharat Ratna was Nanaji Deshmukh (posthumously).

Music Maestro from Assam, Hazarika's son Tej Hazarika received the award on behalf of his father. Whereas, Virendrajeet SIngh, chairman of Deendayal Research Institute received the honour from President Kovind on behalf of Nanaji Deshmukh.

Pranab Mukherjee in his political career of 50 years has served in many capacities including Cabinet minister and the President. He was a Cabinet minister in the governments of Indira Gandhi, PV Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh.

He also served as President of India from 2012 to 2017.

Born on December 11, 1935, at Birbhum district in West Bengal, he holds a Master’s in Political Science and History and LLB degree from University of Calcutta.

Mukherjee was quoted as saying "I've received much more from the people and from this country than I have given to it," after receiving the highest award. 

Award recipient Nanaji Deshmukh was active in RSS activities and had contributed in the field of education and health.

Apart from the Prime Minister and Cabinet ministers, Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha also was witness to the award ceremony that was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.