Pankaj Udhas: A Ghazal Legacy Unparalleled(image: twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis)
As the legendary ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas died on Monday, a great legacy of nostalgic music is left behind. The Ghazal maestro, known for his lyrical powers and evocative performances, stormed the musical arena in the 80s and 90s and still resonates in the hearts of audiences today.
Born in Gujrat”s Jetpur in 1951, Pankaj Udhas was the youngest of three brothers. He began his music career with the release of a ghazal album titled Aahat (1980). He is known for his celebrated albums including Mukarar (1981), Tarrannum (1982), Mehfil (1983), Nayaab (1985) and Aafreen (1986).
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As he rose to fame as a ghazal singer, Pankaj Udhas made entry to Hindi film industry by singing a song for Mahesh Bhatt”s film Naam (1986). His song “Chitthi Aayee Hai” from the movie became immediate success and started his successful career as playback singer as well. The duet “Mahiya Teri Kasam” in the film Ghaya with Lata Mangeshkar, “Na Kajre Ki Dhar”, from the film Mohra with Sadhana Sargam are some of his immensely popular collaborations. Later, in order to advance the ghazal singer’s talent, Pankaj Udhas tarted a talent hunt television programme called Aadab Aarz Hai on Sony TV.
He has received numerous honours and awards including the reputed ‘Kalakaar’ award, Filmfare Award, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. In 2006, music legend was awarded Padma Shri, India”s fourth highest civilian award for his contribution to the art of ghazal and also for providing contributions to cancer patients.
Pankaj Udhas is survived by wife Farida Udhas, and two daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas.
We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years.
His departure leaves… pic.twitter.com/5xL6Y3Sv75
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024
