Renowned classical singer Pankaj Udhas, known for his soulful renditions of Ghazals, bid farewell to the world on February 26, leaving behind a legacy that resonates deeply in the hearts of music lovers. Among his many memorable contributions to the world of music, one particular anecdote stands out, shedding light on his humility and dedication to his craft.

In a candid interview with Lehren, Pankaj Udhas reminisced about a pivotal moment in his career, revealing his initial reluctance to lend his voice to the timeless classic “Chitthi Aayi Hai” from the film “Naam,” starring Sanjay Dutt. Recounting the circumstances surrounding the offer, Udhas shared, “When the opportunity arose for me to be a part of this song, I hesitated. Acting was never my forte, and I was apprehensive about stepping into that realm.”

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The singer’s reservations stemmed from his unwavering focus on his true passion: singing. He recalled the pressure he felt when approached by the film’s producer, Rajendra Kumar, who sought his participation in the project. “I was under the impression that I was being asked to act in the film,” Udhas confessed. “But to my relief, it turned out that they simply wanted me to make a cameo appearance as myself.”

However, even with this clarification, Udhas remained uncertain, prompting a stern reaction from Kumar, who expressed his disappointment through mutual acquaintances. It was only after a heartfelt conversation with his brother, Manoj Udhas, that Pankaj mustered the courage to decline the offer gracefully.

Ultimately, Udhas humbly apologized to Kumar, explaining his reservations about acting and reaffirming his commitment to his musical journey. “I conveyed my sincere apologies and clarified that while I may not be suited for the silver screen, I am wholeheartedly dedicated to my craft as a singer,” he revealed.

Despite his initial hesitation, Udhas’s decision paved the way for the unforgettable collaboration that would etch “Chitthi Aayi Hai” into the annals of musical history. The song, imbued with his emotive vocals, continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a testament to Udhas’s enduring legacy as a maestro of melody.