Pankaj Udas, Jaspinder Narula, Honored At Padma Awards 2025
India-West News Desk
NEW DELHI- The 2025 Padma Awards ceremony, held on April 28 evening at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognized the remarkable contributions of several iconic musicians to India’s rich cultural heritage.
The late Pankaj Udhas was posthumously conferred with the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his unparalleled contribution to the world of ghazal music. His wife, Farida Udhas, graciously accepted the award on his behalf from President Droupadi Murmu at the ceremony held at Ganatantra Mandap. Reflecting on the bittersweet honor, Farida expressed pride but also sorrow, as her late husband was not there to receive the award himself. “He always gave his best to make India proud. Through his music, he connected borders and put India on the global map,” she said.
Pankaj Udhas, who passed away last year, at the age of 72, was widely acclaimed for his soulful ghazals. His musical journey began with the 1980 album Aahat and continued with other successful records like Mukarar (1981), Tarrannum (1982), and Mehfil (1983). His most beloved tracks include “Chitthi Aayi Hai,” “Chandani Raat Mein,” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo.” His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, shared her emotions on the award, recalling that the day marked 11 months since her father’s passing. “It’s a proud moment, but also a reminder of our immense loss,” she said.
Adding to the musical honors, celebrated singer Jaspinder Narula was bestowed with the Padma Shri for her significant contributions to Indian music. Known for her soulful voice, Narula’s chart-topping tracks like “Tare Hain Barati” from Virasat (1997) and “Judaai Judaai” from Judaai (1997) have earned her a respected place in the industry. The Padma Shri recognition highlights her dedication to the art form and her enduring legacy.
Another musical luminary, Bhai Harjinder Singh Ji, was also awarded the Padma Shri for his exceptional service to devotional music. As a revered Raagi and Shabad singer, his efforts to spread Sikh religious music have been widely lauded
