Who was Pankaj Udhas?
Pankaj Udhas was an iconic Indian ghazal singer and music director known for his soulful renditions. Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, he rose to prominence with his debut album “Aahat” in 1980. With a career spanning decades, he captivated audiences with his melodious voice, contributing significantly to the realm of Indian music.
Wiki/Overview
| Full Name | Pankaj Udhas |
| Nickname | N/A |
| Profession | Ghazal Singer, Music Director |
| Date of Birth | 17 May, 1951 |
| Place of Birth | Jetpur, Gujarat, India |
| Age (at the time of death) | 72 |
| Date of Death | 26 February, 2024 |
| Place of Death | Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai |
| Cause of Death | Prolonged illness |
| Father | Keshubhai Udhas |
| Mother | Jituben Udhas |
| Spouse | Farida UUdha |
| Education | Degree in Science |
| Alma Mater | Vidya Vihar School, Rajkot; St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai |
| Organization | N/A |
| Known for | His iconic debut album “Aahat” released in 1980; His hits like “Chitthi Aayee Hai”; Hosting talent hunt show “Aadab Aarz Hai” |
| Residence | N/A |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Height | 5’6’’ |
| Weight | 72 kg |
| Eye Colour | Black |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
Early life
Pankaj Udhas was born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, India. Growing up in a family of Zamindars, his interest in music blossomed at a young age, influenced by his elder brother Manhar Udhas. Despite initial struggles, he pursued his passion, receiving formal music training and completing his education in Mumbai.
Career
Pankaj Udhas embarked on his music career in the 1970s, initially attempting Bollywood without much success. However, inspired by renowned ghazal singers like Mehndi Hasan and Begum Akhtar, he transitioned to ghazal music. His debut album “Aahat” in 1980 marked the beginning of his prolific career. Pankaj Udhas’s soul-stirring voice and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him fame and accolades. He continued to release successful albums, perform internationally, and contribute to Indian music culture until his passing in 2024.
Education
Pankaj Udhas pursued his education at Vidya Vihar School in Rajkot and later attended St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, where he completed a degree in Science. Despite his interest in music, he prioritized his studies before fully committing to his musical career.
Family and Affairs
Pankaj Udhas hailed from a close-knit family in Jetpur, Gujarat, India. He was married to Farida Udhas and had two daughters, Nayaab Udhas and Reva Udhas. His elder brothers, Nirmal Udhas and Manhar Udhas, also had careers in music. Pankaj Udhas was devoted to his family and maintained a private personal life.
Appearance
Pankaj Udhas stood at a height of 168 cm (5’6”) and weighed around 72 kg (159 lbs). With a chest measurement of 40 inches, a waist of 34 inches, and biceps of 12 inches, he maintained a well-proportioned physique. He had black eyes and hair.
Achievements
Pankaj Udhas, the renowned ghazal maestro, garnered numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career. He was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri in 2006 for his exceptional contribution to ghazal singing and his philanthropic endeavours. Additionally, he received awards such as the “Kalakar” award for Best Ghazal Album, MTV Immies Award, Dadabhai Naoroji Millennium Award, and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, USA Award. Pankaj Udhas was also honoured with special recognition for his outstanding performances, philanthropy, and efforts in popularizing ghazals globally, cementing his legacy as a musical luminary.
Money Factor
| Net Worth | N/A |
| Salary / Income | ₹6-7 lakhs/show |
Trivia & Facts
- His first stage performance was at the tender age of 11 during the Indo-Chinese war in 1962, where he sang “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon” and received 51 INR from an impressed audience member.
- Pankaj Udhas was an active social worker, raising funds for organizations like the Cancer Patients Aid Society and Parents Thalassemia Unit, among others.
- His rendition of “Chitthi Aayee Hai” from the film “Naam” in 1986 became immensely popular and is still considered one of his best songs.
- Pankaj Udhas had a passion for horse racing and even owned a filly named Alliana, showcasing his diverse interests beyond music.
If you have any additional information, feel free to reach out at thefilmycharcha@gmail.com.
Now, Get your Google presence in the form of Public Biography like the one above! Hurry up! Click here to get Your Biography Published.
