PremiumPankaj Udhas no more - Here are 6 lesser-known facts about the ghazal singer
Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, 72, passed away due to a prolonged illness today. As we remember the late singer, here are 6 lesser-known facts about the Chitthi Aayee Hai singer.
Last Updated: 07.22 PM, Feb 26, 2024
Celebrated ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas passed away today after a prolonged illness. From launching several successful music albums to being honoured with the Padma Shri – the late ghazal singer had many feathers in his cap. As we remember the late singer, here are 6 lesser-known facts about the Chitthi Aayee Hai singer. Read on...
Pankaj hailed from Gujarat
Pankaj Udhas was born in Jetpur, Gujarat, on May 17, 1951. His grandfather was the first person to graduate from his village, and his family came from a zamindar background. His father, a government employee, was also a dilruba player, who studied under famous veena master Abdul Karim Khan.
Wanted to become a doctor
Pankaj Udhas had originally aspired to be a doctor, but his passion for music inspired him to study Hindustani vocal classical music with Ghulam Qadir Khan Sahab. Subsequently, he relocated to Mumbai to receive training with Gwalior Gharana singer Navrang Nagpurkar.
A modest beginning
Pankaj Udhas received a meagre 51 rupees as payment when he started his musical career. He was first acknowledged on stage when he performed "Ae Mere Watan Ke Logo," a performance that would have a lasting impact on his developing music career. Aahat, a ghazal album, marked the beginning of Udhas' career. He went on to record a number of songs, including Mukarar (1981), Tarrannum (1982), Mehfil (1983), Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall (1984), Nayaab (1985), and Aafreen (1986). He is best known for his iconic song Chitthi Aayee Hai. In addition, he performed playback vocals for numerous Hindi films, including Mohra, Saajan, Naam, and Yeh Dillagi.
Had a degree in science
Pankaj Udhas graduated from Wilson College in Mumbai with a degree in science, despite having a strong affinity for tabla music.
Was spiritually inclined
The well-known Ghazal artist Pankaj Udhas had a unique pre-concert ritual in which he read the Hanuman Chalisa. This demonstrated his spiritual side and helped him focus better before the performance.
An active social worker
As a dedicated social worker, Pankaj Udhas raised money for MIND, the Parents Thalassemia Unit, the Cancer Patients Aid Society, and the Spastic Society of India. To find fresh ghazal talent, he also launched the Sony TV talent search programme Aadab Arz Hai.