Pankaj Udhas' Wife and Daughters on His Padma Bhushan Honour: “A Bittersweet Feeling – We Wish He Was With Us”

New Delhi | April 28, 2025:
Legendary ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas was posthumously conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, in recognition of his immense contribution to the field of art and music. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at the Padma Awards ceremony held in Delhi on Monday evening.

Accepting the honour on his behalf, Udhas’ wife Farida Udhas was joined by their daughters, Nayaab and Reva. Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Farida shared her emotional experience:

“I received the award on his behalf. It was a bittersweet feeling. I felt so proud of him, but at the same time, missed him at every moment.”

The moment was filled with pride, gratitude, and an undercurrent of grief, as the family remembered the musical icon who passed away earlier this year in February. Pankaj Udhas had not only shaped the landscape of Indian ghazal singing with timeless melodies like "Chitthi Aayi Hai" and "Aur Aahista Kijiye Baatein", but had also played a pivotal role in making ghazals accessible to the masses through his soulful performances over several decades.

His daughter Nayaab Udhas, who has also been involved in preserving and promoting her father's musical legacy, added:

“Papa dedicated his life to music, and this recognition means a lot to us as a family. We just wish he was here to see it.”

The family also met with dignitaries and well-wishers at the event, many of whom expressed admiration for Udhas' legacy and the emotional weight of the moment.

The late singer’s contribution to Indian music will continue to resonate through generations, and the Padma Bhushan stands as a fitting tribute to his artistic brilliance and enduring legacy.