This year’s Republic Day celebrations brought bittersweet news for the Udhas family. Ghazal legend Pankaj Udhas, who passed away nearly a year ago, was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, posthumously. While the news brought joy and pride, it also left the family with a sense of longing. His eldest daughter, Nayaab Udhas, expressed her emotions about the recognition, sharing how much they miss their father during this significant moment.
The Padma Bhushan was awarded to Pankaj Udhas for his immense contribution to Indian music, particularly in the world of ghazals. His influence on the genre is undeniable, and his efforts to take ghazals to a global audience helped shape the musical landscape of India. For Nayaab, receiving the news of her father’s posthumous recognition was a moment of mixed emotions. “I was so happy and emotional when I received the call,” she says. “It’s a huge honor for dad’s work, but we wish he were here to celebrate with us.”
The family’s grief remains fresh. Nayaab revealed that January 26 also marks 11 months since Pankaj Udhas’ passing. The emotional weight of the day was evident as she spoke about how much they miss him. “We still can’t accept that he’s gone. My mom, my sister Rewa, and I cried a lot when we heard the news. We all wished he could see this day.” Nayaab recalled how her father often wondered if he would ever be awarded the Padma Bhushan, and they reassured him that it would surely happen. “And now it has. All I can say to him is, ‘You did it, Dad,’” she adds.
Pankaj Udhas had already received the Padma Shri in 2006, but this new recognition speaks volumes about the legacy he left behind. Apart from his musical achievements, Udhas was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting causes like thalassemia and cancer research. His work in these areas made a significant impact on many lives, which is why the Padma Bhushan feels like a fitting tribute to his contributions, both as an artist and a humanitarian.
The news of the award comes alongside other significant honors. This year’s Padma Awards ceremony saw a number of other remarkable individuals being recognized, including singer Sharda Sinha, who was awarded the Padma Vibhushan posthumously. The likes of Arijit Singh, musician Ricky Kej, director Shekhar Kapur, and actor Ajith Kumar were also honored, bringing a sense of pride to their families and fans alike.
Nayaab, who is also an entrepreneur, reflected on how much her father’s music had touched the lives of so many. “Dad always believed in making ghazals relatable, and he succeeded in doing that. He took our culture to the world,” she says. The family has continued to carry forward his legacy in their own ways, even as they hold on to the memories of the man who inspired so many.
Though they can’t physically celebrate with him, the Udhas family knows that Pankaj’s legacy will continue to live on. His music, his kindness, and his values have left an indelible mark on the world. Nayaab concluded by saying, “It’s a proud moment for all of us. We just wish Dad were here to witness it.”
