La India, affectionately known as “The Princess of Salsa,” received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 37th annual Premio Lo Nuestro on Thursday, February 20.

Salsa singer Luis Figueroa introduced the legendary artist, crediting her as one of the reasons he fell in love with salsa music. Moments later, La India—dressed elegantly in a regal blue suit—took the stage, captivating the audience with a medley of her greatest hits, including “Ese Hombre,” “Dicen Que Soy,” and “Mi Mayor Venganza.” Accompanied by Sergio George on piano, her performance was a powerful display of her enduring artistry.

Following the electrifying tribute, salsa star Víctor Manuelle presented La India with the honorary award, stating, “Today, I have the honor and privilege of recognizing one of the most iconic voices in our genre—baptized by Celia Cruz herself as ‘La Princesa de la Salsa.’”

Overcome with emotion, La India delivered a heartfelt speech:
“This is for my fans—thank you for always standing by my side. I want to thank God, the Almighty, who never abandons us. I also want to thank the musicians, Sergio George, the Queen of Salsa Celia Cruz, my godfather Pedro Knight, Tito Puente, and Little Louie Vega. From the moment I arrived, I never looked back—I have remained loyal to my tropical salsa roots. To all Latinos, we are an important part of this land. No one will ever push us out of the Americas. Never.”

The Premio Lo Nuestro 2025 ceremony, broadcast live from the Kaseya Center in Miami, was co-hosted by Laura Pausini, Thalía, and Alejandra Espinoza. Becky G and Carín León led this year’s nominations with 10 each, followed closely by Shakira and Myke Towers with nine, and Ángela Aguilar, Emilia, Grupo Frontera, and Leonardo Aguilar with eight.

In addition to La India, Alejandro Fernández and Manuel Alejandro were also recognized with special awards. The gala’s theme, “Uniendo Generaciones” (Uniting Generations), celebrated the artists, songs, and albums that bridge the past, present, and future of Latin music.

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