NEW DELHI: Renowned ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas, known for his soul-stirring melodies, passed away at the age of 72 due to a prolonged illness, as confirmed by the Udhas family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X, stating, “His singing conveyed a range of emotions and his ghazals spoke directly to the soul.”
Chithi Aayi Hai
Pankaj Udhas, inspired by legends Begum Akhtar and Mehdi Hasan, rose to fame with his debut ghazal album ‘Aahat’ in 1980. One of his timeless classics, ‘Chithi Aayi Hai’ from Mahesh Bhatt’s ‘Naam’ (1986), remains a fan favourite, capturing the joy of a migrant-receiving a letter from home, resonating with deep emotions of longing.
‘Chithi Aayi Hai’ provides a beautiful harmony to the passage of time and the importance of communication.
Kisi Ne Bhi To Na Dekha
Another gem, ‘Kisi Ne Bhi To Na Dekha,’ composed by Anand–Milind for the movie ‘Dil Aashna Hai,’ reflects the yearning for unconditional love. Pankaj, appearing in the song scenes, delivers a poignant narrative alongside Amrita Singh and Divya Bharti.
Ae Gham-E-Zindagi Kuch Toh De Mashwara
From his 1985 album “Nayaab,” the ghazal “Ae Gham e Zindagi Kuch Toh De Mashwara” explores the inner turmoil of a drunkard torn between visiting his beloved or the bar. Pankaj’s captivating voice transports listeners to a profound realm of transcendence.
Chand Jaisa Rang
‘Chandi Jaisa Rang,’ a portrayal of the splendour of a beloved, evokes deep feelings of love. Pankaj’s rendition, with the line ‘Dhanak ghata kaliyan aur taare sab hai tera roop,’ resonates with unconditional love and takes listeners back to cherished moments.
‘Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera’ captures the essence of first love, with Pankaj Udhas’ vocals evoking the innocence and longing of desire. The lyrics, ‘Jis raste se guzre tu woh/Phoolon se bhar jaaye,’ resonate profoundly in this hour of grief.
Thodi Thodi Piya Karo
Reflecting melancholy, ‘Thodi Thodi Piya Karo’ from Pankaj Udhas exemplifies the sentiment perfectly. Despite interpretations of the word “sharaab” as alcohol, Pankaj clarified its metaphorical use, stating, ‘It is about being intoxicated by love, money, beauty, and so on.’ As evident in this track, Pankaj Udhas’ rich and textured voice reflects a timeless understanding of love.
Pankaj Udhas, with his melodious voice and profound ghazals, leaves behind a musical legacy that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. His contributions to Indian music will be remembered and cherished, as his soulful renditions remain eternal.