Awards are not just trophies; they are reflections of global excellence, diplomacy, and cultural power. For UPSC aspirants, knowing the who, why, and where of awards helps in both prelims and mains.

In literature, South Korean author Han Kang won the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature, marking history as the first Korean to do so. Percival Everett’s novel James secured both the Pulitzer (2025) and National Book Award (2024), showing how one work can redefine classics.

In cinema, global attention turned to the 2025 Cannes Palme d’Or, awarded to Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi for It Was Just an Accident. Streaming platforms and international festivals highlight cinema as soft power.

Sports saw India shine with the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup victory, while Paris 2024 Olympics placed the USA at the top of the medal tally. These wins shape national pride and international standing.

In science, the 2024 Nobel in Physics honored Geoffrey Hinton and John Hopfield for AI breakthroughs, proving how technology defines the future of knowledge.