Pankaj Udhas Biography: Height, Weight, Age, Family, Career, Achievements & More
Pankaj Udhas is a renowned Indian ghazal singer, celebrated for his soulful voice and timeless melodies. With a career spanning over four decades, he has captivated audiences worldwide and played a pivotal role in popularizing ghazals in India and abroad. Known for iconic songs like “Chitthi Aayi Hai” and his humanitarian work, Udhas remains a legendary figure in the Indian music industry.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Pankaj Udhas |
|---|---|
| Profession / Occupation | Ghazal Singer, Playback Singer, Composer |
| Birth Date | 17 May 1951 |
| Age | 74 years (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Jetpur, Rajkot District, Gujarat, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Famous For | Popularizing ghazal music in India |
| Known For | “Chitthi Aayi Hai”, soulful ghazals, humanitarian work |
| Ethnicity | Gujarati |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Height & Weight | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), approx. 70 kg |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Education | St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Marital Status / Spouse | Married to Farida Udhas |
| Children | 2 daughters (Nayaab and Reva) |
| Relatives | Manhar Udhas (elder brother), Nirmal Udhas (elder brother) |
| Hobbies | Listening to music, reading poetry, traveling |
| Employer / Organization | Self-employed, various music labels |
| Years Active | 1980–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | INR 50–60 crore (approx.) |
Early Life & Education
Pankaj Udhas was born on 17 May 1951 in Jetpur, a small town in Gujarat’s Rajkot district. He grew up in a musically-inclined family, with both his elder brothers, Manhar and Nirmal Udhas, also being accomplished singers. Udhas attended St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, where he developed a deep passion for music, especially ghazals and classical forms. His early exposure to music at home and formal training in Indian classical music laid the foundation for his illustrious career.
Career Journey
Pankaj Udhas’s journey in the world of music began at an early age, inspired by his family’s legacy. He initially trained in Indian classical music before gravitating towards ghazals, a genre that would become his signature.
Early Career & Breakthrough
Udhas started performing at college events and small gatherings, gradually earning recognition for his melodious voice. His first major break came with the release of his debut ghazal album “Aahat” in 1980, which became an instant hit and established him as a rising star in the genre.
Rise to Fame
The 1980s and 1990s marked the golden era of Pankaj Udhas’s career. He released several successful albums, including “Mukarrar,” “Tarrannum,” and “Mehfil.” His song “Chitthi Aayi Hai,” featured in the Bollywood film “Naam” (1986), became an iconic anthem and remains one of his most beloved tracks. Udhas’s unique ability to blend classical nuances with modern arrangements helped bring ghazals to mainstream audiences.
Later Career & Legacy
In the later years, Udhas continued to perform globally, collaborating with renowned artists and participating in international concerts. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting cancer patients and promoting Indian music worldwide. His legacy as a ghazal maestro continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
Personal Life
Pankaj Udhas is married to Farida Udhas, and the couple has two daughters, Nayaab and Reva. The family is known for their close-knit bond and support for Udhas’s musical journey. Outside of music, Udhas enjoys reading poetry, traveling, and engaging in community service, particularly in the field of healthcare and education.
Awards & Achievements
- Padma Shri (2006) – Government of India
- Kala Samman – Government of Madhya Pradesh
- Special Achievement Award – Channel V
- MTV Immies Award for Contribution to Indian Music
- Lata Mangeshkar Samman
- Multiple Gold, Platinum, and Multi-Platinum album certifications
Physical Statistics
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
|---|---|
| Weight | Approx. 70 kg |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Black |
Quotes
- “Music is the language of the soul, and ghazals are its poetry.”
- “A good ghazal touches the heart and lingers in the memory forever.”
- “I believe music has the power to heal and unite people across cultures.”
Controversies
Pankaj Udhas has largely maintained a controversy-free image throughout his career. He is respected for his professionalism and dedication to his craft, steering clear of major public disputes or scandals.
Favorites
- Favorite Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Mehdi Hassan
- Favorite Food: Gujarati cuisine, especially dhokla and undhiyu
- Favorite Book: Poetry collections by Mirza Ghalib
- Favorite Place: Mumbai, London
- Favorite Instrument: Harmonium
Salary & Net Worth
Pankaj Udhas’s estimated net worth is between INR 50–60 crore as of 2025, accumulated through album sales, live concerts, and royalties. As a leading ghazal artist, he commands significant fees for performances, with earnings from international tours and brand endorsements contributing to his wealth.
Interesting Facts
- Pankaj Udhas’s family has produced three renowned ghazal singers, making them a unique musical dynasty.
- He has performed in over 50 countries, bringing Indian ghazals to global audiences.
- Udhas has actively supported cancer patients through fundraising concerts and charity work.
- He is one of the few Indian singers to receive multiple platinum disc awards for his albums.
- His signature moustache and elegant style are almost as iconic as his music.
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Pankaj Udhas famous for?
Pankaj Udhas is famous for his soulful ghazal singing and iconic songs like “Chitthi Aayi Hai.” - How old is Pankaj Udhas in 2025?
He is 74 years old as of 2025. - Who is Pankaj Udhas’s wife?
He is married to Farida Udhas. - Does Pankaj Udhas have children?
Yes, he has two daughters, Nayaab and Reva. - What is Pankaj Udhas’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is INR 50–60 crore. - Which was Pankaj Udhas’s most popular song?
“Chitthi Aayi Hai” from the film “Naam” is his most popular song.
Conclusion
Pankaj Udhas’s contribution to Indian music, especially in the ghazal genre, is unparalleled. His melodious voice and heartfelt performances have touched millions. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with fellow music lovers and fans of Indian classical music.
Sources
Wikipedia |
The Hindu |
Bollywood Hungama |
India Today
