Music circles and adoring fans were met with a wave of sadness as news broke of the passing of Pankaj Udhas, the voice that brought ghazals into the limelight. The outpouring of grief was testament to the unique place the maestro held in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.
Eminent singer Sadhana Sargam, who has shared the stage and studio with Udhas on numerous occasions, spoke highly of the late singer. She reminisced about his gentle and affable nature, describing him as “a kind-hearted, sophisticated, and very good-natured person.” The quality of his voice, according to Sargam, was nothing short of divine—a gift that allowed him to create an unparalleled niche in the realm of ghazals.
Pankaj Udhas left an indelible mark on his audience, creating an ambiance with his music that was distinctively his own. “He created an era,” Sargam mused, highlighting how remarkable it was for an artist to achieve such a feat when many venerable ghazal singers already graced the musical landscape. Despite knowing Udhas professionally and personally, Sargam admitted being unaware of the severity of his illness, which left her particularly shocked at his demise.
Their collaborations bore memorable hits, none more so than the song “Na kajre ki dhar na motiyon ke haar” from the film Mohra (1994), which continues to resonate with fans. The duo brought this magic to life on stage many times, etching the song in the annals of Indian music history. Their creative partnerships extended beyond live performances to studio projects like the ‘Khazana’ festival and the album ‘Kabhi Aasoon, Kabhi Khushboo.’
Sargam lauded Udhas for making Urdu poetry more accessible, saying he was successful in “bringing Urdu to the people by simplifying it for the masses.” His simplicity in approach, both in music and personal demeanor, was something she admired deeply.
Renowned percussionist Sivamani also paid tribute to the late singer, expressing his admiration for Udhas’ contributions to the industry. Describing the news as a major loss, he commended Udhas for giving a plethora of singers opportunities to display their talents. To Sivamani, Udhas was a great master, with a uniquely captivating voice that made his concerts phenomenal. The maestro’s dedication to preserving and championing traditional music in a beautiful and fitting manner did not go unnoticed.
In concert, Pankaj Udhas was more than a performer; he was a preserver of musical heritage, often bringing the traditional aspects of ghazals to the fore to charm his audience with every note. The magic he conjured through his music transcended generations and cultural boundaries, making him an everlasting icon in his field.
Sivamani and Sargam, along with the rest of the music world, mourn the loss of a legend who touched so many lives through his soulful renditions. Indeed, Pankaj Udhas’ journey in music was more than just a career—it was a mission to kindle a love for ghazals within the hearts of listeners. As tributes continue to pour in, the legacy he leaves behind will forever be cherished, and his voice will resonate through time, reminding us of the era he crafted so lovingly. His passing marks the end of a chapter, but his songs and the profound impact he had on the world of music will resonate for eternity.
