Famous Ghazal Singer Pankaj Udhas expires - A look back at a great career

 

Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has passed away at the age of 72.  Singer was suffering from a long illness.  Sigar's family has issued a statement informing about his demise.  The statement reads- 'With a very heavy heart, we are sad to inform you of the tragic demise of Padmashree Pankaj Udhas on 26 February 2024 due to prolonged illness.'

 Pankaj Udhas died today at 11 am in Mumbai.  For some time, he was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.  He breathed his last in this hospital.  According to the information, Pankaj Udhas was diagnosed with cancer a few months ago and he was not meeting anyone for the last few months.  His last rites will be performed tomorrow in Mumbai.

 Pankaj Udhas was a big name in the world of ghazal singing.  He got fame with the ghazal 'Chitthi Aayi Hai'.  This ghazal was in the film 'Naam' released in 1986.  Pankaj lent his voice to many ghazals which include 'Yeh Dillagi', 'Phir Teri Kahani Yaad Aayi', 'Chale To Kat Hi Jayega' and 'Tere Bin'.  Apart from this, 'Na Kajre Ki Dhar', 'Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera' are among the memorable songs of Pankaj.

 

 Pankaj Udhas proved his mettle in singing and was honored with many awards for his excellent voice.  The most important among these is the Padmashree Award which was given to him in 2006.

 Pankaj belonged to singing background

 Pankaj Udhas was born on April 17, 1951 in Sarvkund, Gujarat.  He belonged to a singing background right from the beginning.  His elder brother Manhar Udhas was already known as a playback singer in Bollywood.  His other brother Nirmal Udhas was also an excellent ghazal singer.

 

 Pankaj Udhas' elder brother Manhar was also a theater actor.  Pankaj worked with him and sang Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon on his first stage and the audience was impressed by his voice.  Then a spectator gave Rs 51 to Pankaj as a reward.  Later Pankaj Udhas joined Sangeet Natya Academy and started playing tabla.  After graduating from St. Xavier's College, he worked in a bar.

A brief lookback at a glittering career : 

Pankaj Udhas, a maestro in the realm of ghazal music, has captivated audiences with his soul-stirring and mellifluous renditions for decades. Born on May 17, 1951, in Gujarat, India, Udhas rose to prominence with timeless classics like "Chitthi Aayi Hai" and "Naam." His velvety voice and emotive delivery have earned him accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri in 2006. With a discography spanning numerous albums such as "Aafreen" and "Nayaab," Udhas has left an indelible mark on the ghazal landscape. His live performances, including the notable one at the Royal Albert Hall in 1987, have further solidified his stature as one of India's foremost ghazal singers, touching hearts with his poetic lyricism and unparalleled musicality.

Pankaj Udhas has had a prolific career in ghazal music. While I can't provide an exhaustive list, here are some highlights of his works and achievements:

**Albums:**

1. *Aahat* (1980)

2. *Mukarar* (1981)

3. *Tarrannum* (1982)

4. *Mitti* (1983)

5. *Nasha* (1984)

6. *Jashn* (1985)

7. *Aafreen* (1986)

8. *Khayal* (1987)

9. *Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall* (1987)

10. *Nayaab* (1989)

11. *Safar* (1991)

12. *Rubayee - Pankaj Udhas Live* (1992)

**Notable Songs:**

1. "Chitthi Aayi Hai"

2. "Naam"

3. "Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise"

4. "Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera"

5. "Aur Aahista"

6. "Mahiya Teri Kasam"

**Achievements:**

1. **Padma Shri:** Awarded the fourth-highest civilian award in India in 2006.

2. **Filmfare Awards:** Received several nominations and won the Filmfare Best Ghazal Singer Award.

3. **Global Indian Music Award (GIMA):** Honored for outstanding contribution to Indian music.

4. **Mirchi Music Awards:** Recognized for his exceptional work in the music industry.

These are just a few highlights, and Pankaj Udhas has a rich and extensive musical career.