I Am Heartbroken: Sameera Reddy Reflects On Pankaj Udhas's Passing

Renowned ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas passed away at the age of 72 after battling a prolonged illness, as confirmed by the Udhas family on February 26. The news was shared by Pankaj Udhas' daughter, Nayaab, on Instagram, where she posted a statement announcing his demise. The statement expressed the family's sorrow and informed followers about the singer's passing on February 26, 2024.

Following the announcement, an outpouring of condolences flooded the comments section, with fans expressing their grief and sympathy for the loss. Messages of support and prayers were shared by many, reflecting the widespread impact of Pankaj Udhas' music on his admirers.

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According to reports, Pankaj Udhas breathed his last around 11 am at Breach Candy Hospital. His final rites are scheduled to take place on Tuesday, February 27. Survived by his wife Farida Udhas, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers Nirmal and Manhar Udhas, who are also accomplished singers, Pankaj Udhas leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of music.

Sameera Reddy Reflects on Pankaj Udhas's Passing

Sameera Reddy, who starred in Pankaj Udhas' legendary music video Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein, shared her heartfelt thoughts on the passing of the music icon in an interview with Hindustan Times. Expressing her shock and sorrow upon hearing the news, Reddy conveyed her deep sadness, stating that she was experiencing chills and tears in her eyes. She said, “I just heard, I am having chills while talking to you right now. I have tears in my eyes. I am heartbroken. It's sad that we have lost him.”

The music video Ahista was inspired by O Henry's The Gifts of Magi, where Sameera Reddy portrayed the female lead who sells her hair to buy a helmet for her love interest. Reflecting on the profound impact of the song on her career, Sameera expressed to the Hindustan Times, "Today I am everything I am because of him. They spotted me and chose me. I was a young kid with no aspirations and didn't know what I was doing, but somehow I became a part of this cult song, it's one of his biggest hits. It was a privilege and honour that I was a part of it."

Recalling her initial encounter with Pankaj Udhas, Sameera revealed, "I was very nervous when I met him, I was shaking and so scared because it was the first time I was facing the camera. I remember thinking, 'What have I got myself into?' But, he was just smiling through it all. He was so relaxed and never intimidated being a senior, there was no pressure.”

More About Pankaj Udhas

Pankaj Udhas rose to prominence with his soulful renditions and timeless melodies that captivated audiences across generations. He was celebrated for his contributions to iconic soundtracks, including Chitthi Aayi Hai from Mahesh Bhatt's 1986 film Naam, Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai from Pravin Bhatt's 1998 movie Ek Hi Maqsad, and Aaj Phir Tumpe from Feroz Khan's 1988 film Dayavan.

Throughout his illustrious career, Pankaj Udhas established himself as a prominent figure in the realm of ghazal music. His albums, such as Aahat (1980), showcased his mastery of the art form, featuring timeless tracks like Na Kajre Ki Dhaar, Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein, Ek Taraf Uska Ghar, and Thodi Thodi Piya Karo.

Pankaj Udhas and Fardia's Love Story

In 1979, amidst the trials of a struggling period, he encountered Farida, a beacon of hope amid the darkness. Their courtship spanned three years, during which he found solace in her presence. Their initial meeting at a neighbour's house on Warden Road left a lasting impression on him, as he was captivated by her genuine laughter and straightforward nature. At the time, Farida was working as a flight attendant for Air India.

Coming from disparate backgrounds—he hailed from a family of landlords in Gujarat and she from a traditional Parsi family—their relationship faced resistance from both sides. However, determined to seek their parents' blessings, he sought approval from Farida's father, a retired police officer known for his stern demeanour. Despite initial reluctance, her father eventually consented to their union, albeit with cautious words of advice.

Their marriage, solemnised on February 11, 1982, marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership characterised by mutual respect and unwavering support. Farida emerged as more than a life partner; she became his confidante, collaborator, and guiding force in both personal and professional endeavours. Farida's unwavering faith in his talent served as a source of motivation during moments of doubt. Despite the demands of his concert tours, the geographical distance only served to strengthen their bond, with quiet beachside conversations serving as cherished moments of intimacy.

Reflecting on a poignant gesture from their past, he recalled a time when Farida selflessly loaned him the funds needed for his album launch, despite facing financial constraints herself. In 1984, he graced the prestigious stage of The Royal Albert Hall in London, where he serenaded his beloved with the soulful rendition of Chandi jaisa ang hai tera, a heartfelt dedication to Farida that resonated with audiences worldwide.