Remembering Pankaj Udhas, the philanthropic icon of music

By Bollywood Hungama News Network -

March 1, 2024 - 4:30 PM IST

The world of music mourns the loss of a true maestro, Pankaj Udhas. With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a luminary whose voice transcended boundaries and whose philanthropic contributions touched countless lives. Pankaj Udhas was more than just a ghazal singer; he was a storyteller whose melodies resonated with listeners across generations. His soulful voice and heartfelt performances evoked a range of emotions, from love and longing to introspection and nostalgia. Through his talent and craft, he formed connections that transcended language and culture, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of millions.

Remembering Pankaj Udhas, the philanthropic icon of music

But beyond the stage, Pankaj Udhas was a man of immense compassion and generosity. His tireless efforts in supporting causes such as Thalassemia and the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA) through initiatives like Khazana, Partnered with Hungama Digital Entertainment, showcased his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world. Year after year, he lent his voice and influence to raise awareness and funds for those in need, embodying the true spirit of philanthropy.

Pankaj Udhas showcased his passion for technology by leveraging social media and partnering with Hungama to stream the Khazana Festival worldwide. Through collaboration with Hungama Artist Aloud, he facilitated a digital talent hunt, fostering new talent in Ghazals and expanding the genre's audience base.

In the wake of Pankaj Udhas's passing, his legacy lives on through his deeply loving family. His wife, Farida Udhas, stood by his side throughout his illustrious career, offering unwavering support and encouragement. Their daughters, Nayaab Udhas and Rewa Udhas, not only supported their father's passion for music but also shared his commitment to giving back to society through various philanthropic initiatives. Moreover, Ojas Adhiya, Pankaj Udhas’s son-in-law and a distinguished tabla player, formed an integral part of their close-knit family, enriching their lives with his musical prowess and camaraderie.

For over a decade, Hungama Digital Entertainment had the privilege of collaborating with Pankaj Udhas, experiencing his love for music and commitment to his humanitarian efforts. Neeraj Roy, Founder and Managing Director of Hungama Digital Media Entertainment, fondly remembers Pankaj Udhas as not just a musical icon but also a cherished friend and esteemed collaborator. He expresses, “With Pankaj Ji's departure, the realm of music suffers an irreplaceable loss. His legacy, resonating through timeless melodies and altruistic endeavours, will perpetually inspire future generations. At Hungama Digital Media, we are privileged to have shared in his odyssey and are committed to perpetuating his vision of harnessing music for positive change."

Also Read: Pankaj Udhas tribute: How the Ghazal maestro almost refused to feature in Naam